Several drugs are used in anesthesia, particularly intravenous agents like Propofol, Ketamine, and Etomidate.
Intravenous Anesthetic Agents
Anesthesia involves using various medications to prevent pain during medical procedures. Intravenous (IV) anesthetic agents are commonly administered directly into a vein to induce sleep or a state of unconsciousness.
Based on the provided reference, key IV agents include:
- Propofol (also known by the brand name Diprivan®)
- Ketamine
- Etomidate
Of these, Propofol is noted as the most commonly used IV general anesthetic. It's versatile and can be used for induction and maintenance of anesthesia.
How Propofol Works (Lower Doses)
The reference highlights a specific characteristic of Propofol when used at lower doses:
- It induces sleep.
- It allows the patient to continue breathing on their own, which can be beneficial in certain procedures or for sedation.
Comparing Intravenous Anesthetic Agents
| Drug Name | Common Use (Based on Reference) | Notes (Based on Reference) |
|---|---|---|
| Propofol (Diprivan®) | Most commonly used IV general anesthetic | Induces sleep; allows spontaneous breathing (lower doses) |
| Ketamine | IV Anesthetic Agent | - |
| Etomidate | IV Anesthetic Agent | - |
These drugs are crucial tools used by anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists to ensure patient comfort and safety during surgeries and other medical interventions. The choice of agent depends on the patient's health, the type of procedure, and the desired level of anesthesia.
