The recent death of Michael Jackson has produced many questions about the drug Propofol. Here are some answers to those most asked questions.
What is Diprivan or Propofol?
Diprivan, also known as Propofol, is an anesthetic typically used to produce general anesthesia or sedation.
How is Propofol used?
Propofol is used in general anesthesia, sedation and intensive care units.
Can someone use Propofol in their home?
It is an extremely powerful drug that is only available to medical personnel. There is no conceivable way this drug can be properly prescribed for home use.
Who should administer Propofol?
Propofol should be administered by a physician anesthesiologist or under the direction of an anesthesiologist.
What are the side effects of Propofol?
Propofol is a powerful drug that depresses respiratory and cardiac function.
Does Propofol cause pain?
The drug can only be administered with an IV. Propofol does burn a bit when being administered. Often the drug Lidocaine is used to reduce the pain associated with the Propofol injection.
Does Propofol help you sleep?
Propofol produces general anesthesia which is a different state than normal, restful sleep.
What does “milk of anesthesia” refer to?
Propofol resembles milk in color and in slang terms is sometimes called “milk of anesthesia”.
Will the toxicology screening be able to detect Propofol in the system?
If Michael Jackson was administered Propofol, the toxicology results will detect the use of Propofol.
For more information about Propofol or anesthesia, please email us at public@asahq.org
