General Anaesthetic
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Propofol is a powerful anaesthetic drug (a medicine that puts you to sleep) used in hospitals to make you unconscious before and during surgery. It works by slowing down brain activity so you fall into a deep, controlled sleep within seconds of injection.
Enhances inhibitory neurotransmission by potentiating GABA_A receptor activity in the central nervous system, resulting in neuronal hyperpolarization and depression of the reticular activating system.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
This is NOT a drug you take at home. It is only given by a trained doctor or anaesthetist in a hospital or clinic setting, directly into your vein through a drip. The doctor controls exactly how much you receive based on your weight, age, and the type of procedure.
This does not apply. Propofol is given by a doctor in a hospital setting, so there is no chance of missing a dose on your own.
This drug should NEVER be used outside a hospital — do not let anyone administer it in an unequipped clinic, pharmacy, or at home. Only a trained anaesthetist or doctor with resuscitation equipment should give this drug. If you are scheduled for a procedure involving propofol, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking and any allergies, especially to eggs, soya, or peanuts.
Mixing with alcohol or sedatives (like diazepam or tramadol) greatly increases the risk of dangerous breathing problems. Blood pressure medications can cause your pressure to drop dangerously low when combined with propofol. Opioid painkillers like morphine or pethidine increase the sedation effect and slow breathing further.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Propofol with your other drugs?
Propofol is not considered safe during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, and it passes into breast milk — your doctor will decide if the benefit outweighs the risk and advise you on breastfeeding after receiving it.
Store below 25°C — Nigerian heat can spoil it, so it must be kept in a cool place. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Once the vial is opened, it must be used within 6 hours because it can easily grow bacteria. Keep far away from children — this drug is extremely dangerous outside a hospital.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Propofol?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.