Propanidid is a short-acting intravenous anesthetic used to induce and maintain general anesthesia in surgical and obstetric procedures. It is quickly metabolized in the body, and therefore only produces a short period of anesthesia. Propanidid has a rapid onset and offset, with a short duration of action and minimal effect on cardiovascular and respiratory systems. It is often used in combination with other anesthetics such as nitrous oxide or barbiturates.
Propanidid is an ultra-short-acting medication that was previously used as a general anesthetic. It belonged to the class of medications known as phenylacetate esters. It was introduced by Bayer in 1963, but its use was discontinued shortly after due to the high incidence of severe allergic reactions.
Propanidid was administered intravenously (injected into a vein) for short duration anesthesia. It worked by causing unconsciousness, but the exact mechanism of this effect is not fully understood.
Propanidid was withdrawn from the market due to a high number of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. This serious reaction can cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a rapid drop in blood pressure. It is thought that these reactions were likely caused by the solvent used in the formulation, rather than the drug itself.
Research is ongoing to determine if propanidid can be safely reformulated to avoid these allergic reactions.
Here are some additional things to know about propanidid:
- It is not currently available for medical use.
- It should not be used by people with a history of allergic reactions to anesthesia or other medications.
- It can cause side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and headache.