Anesthesiology/Propofol

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Question
can you tell me in simple terms how Propofol causes the body to become anaesthetised?

Answer
Can't really explain it in simple terms because it is not a simple process. The action of propofol involves a positive modulation of the inhibitory function of the neurotransmitter gama-aminobutyric acid(GABA) through GABA-A receptors. The GABA receptors are responsible for consciouness (among other things) and this is how scientists think Propofol works.

Ronald Levy, MD
Professor of Anesthesiology
UTMB-Galveston

Anesthesiology

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Ronald Levy, M.D.

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Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. I am a board certified anesthesiologist who can answer all questions related to any type of Anesthesia with the exception of Pain Management.

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