Propofol
From Drug Rehab Wiki
Brand Name: Diprivan
Pronunciation: (PRO-puh-FOLE)
Class: General anesthetic
Trade Names: Diprivan
Route: Injection 10 mg/mL (adults)
Propofol produces sedation within 40 seconds. It suppresses cardiac output and respiration. Because of suppression of respiratory drive, resuscitation equipment should be immediately available.
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Usage of Propofol
Propofol is an injection-method drug available under the brand name Diprivan. The drug is used to reduce anxiety and tension, as well as to promote relaxation and sleep. Propofol is also used to promote a loss of consciousness or loss of awareness for short diagnostic tests and surgical procedures. It also serves as a supplement for other types of general anesthetics.
Propofol is designed to be injected into the vein and should be only administered by a health care professional in a controlled environment. While the drug was developed to only be used in such an environment, the lack of control on the drug does make it susceptible to illicit use.
Abuse of Propofol
Individuals in the medical profession and even celebrities have found propofol to be the drug of choice for a number of reasons. The drug is easily available, accessible and not federally controlled. There are no precautions taken on the dispersion, prescription and storage of the drug. The drug is not considered to be illegal and can be prescribed by any doctor. Propofol was the drug that reportedly caused the overdose death of Michael Jackson.
Sub-anesthetic levels of propofol have been used to produce a high that is characterized by euphoria and sensitization. Studies show that abuse of propofol is high among health care professionals and cases of self-administration have been reported. For those dealing with sleep disorders, propofol is often prescribed and addictions can rapidly develop. Effects of Propofol
Propofol is considered to be a short-acting drug and its effects should wear off in just a few hours. Even after the initial effects have worn off, propofol can still impact an individual’s ability to drive or operate machinery. An individual who is to receive propofol to take a diagnostic test should not plan on driving home.
Side effects that can occur as a result of propofol use can include difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of the throat; fast heartbeat, palpitations; lightheadedness or fainting spells; numbness or tingling in the hands or feet; seizure; skin rash, flushing, or itching; swelling or extreme pain at the injection site; and uncontrollable muscle spasm. Withdrawal of Propofol
Propofol is known to cause withdrawal symptoms in people who quickly stop taking the drug after long time use. It is also possible, however, for withdrawal symptoms to occur when Propofol has only been taken daily for one to two weeks.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms associated with propofol can include, but are not limited to:
• Unpleasant feelings • Sweating • Nausea • Fatigue • Insomnia • Irritability • Stomach cramps • Panic attack • Vomiting • Tremors • Seizures
Treatment of Propofol Addiction
The treatment of a propofol addiction can vary depending upon the patient and the level of addiction. The first step is for a patient to be evaluated by a physician and a psychiatrist to determine the proper method for treatment. A quality treatment center will recommend a comfortable detox to ensure the individual has completely rid their body of the drug and addressed additional cravings.
Propofol addicts are also likely to work on their relationship with sleep as part of their treatment. They can be taught how to use specific tools like yoga, meditation and exercise as well as diet and nutrition, changing caffeine intake, creating new patterns and counseling to determine the cause for taking propofol in the first place.
