propofol · Medicine question

Why is propofol not recommended in newborn infants?

iatroX medicinesPublished 8 November 2026

The answer

Answer

Propofol is not recommended in newborn infants because they have not been fully investigated, clearance is considerably reduced and highly variable, and doses recommended for older children could cause relative overdose and severe cardiovascular depression.

Sources for this answer

Propofol 10mg/ml (1%) emulsion for injection or infusionAspen · emc · SmPC §4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use · Version 29Document updated 3 November 2025

Sources checked 8 November 2026

Explore this learning need in CPDTake this topic to CPD, then choose your learning context and available question library.

Can propofol cause a slow heart rate or asystole?Can propofol cause low blood pressure and temporary pauses in breathing during induction of anaesthesia?Have abuse and dependence been reported with propofol?How do alcohol and narcotic analgesics interact with propofol?What training is required for healthcare professionals administering propofol 1%?How soon after preparation must the Aspen propofol 1% emulsion product diluted with 5% dextrose be used?

loading page…

Answer

Sources for this answer

More questions about propofol

Answer

Sources for this answer

More questions about propofol

propofol

More clinical questions?