PROPOFOL is now widely used in clinical practice because of its favorable recovery profile and low incidence of side effects. 1However, induction of anesthesia with propofol is often associated with a significant decrease in arterial blood pressure and heart rate (HR).

Does propofol cause bradycardia?

In controlled clinical trials, propofol significantly increased the risk of bradycardia compared with other anaesthetics (number-needed-to-harm 11.3 (95% confidence interval 7.7-21)).

How does propofol lower BP?

The BP-lowering effects of propofol or sevoflurane anaesthesia are likely to be mediated through inhibition of the sympathetic nervous system and impairment of baroreflex regulatory mechanisms.