POM-V
Prescription Required
Companion Animal
Propodine 10 mg/ml Emulsion for Injection / Infusion for Dogs and Cats
Active ingredient: Propofol
Form
Injection
Species
Cats
Dogs
Manufacturer
Dechra Regulatory BV
VMD MA No.
50406/4007
What it's used for
up to five minutes. anaesthetic agents.
Full indications, dosage and side effects ↓The prescription itself has a price. See what practices near you charge for a consultation and the written prescription fee.
Paying less for Propofol
-
1
Ask your vet for a written prescription
They must provide one on request. Under the CMA Order the fee is capped at £21 from 2027.
-
2
Fill it at a registered online retailer
The CMA found online pharmacies 50–60% cheaper than practice dispensing on common medicines — typically £200–£300 a year.
Done — we'll email you when prices land.
Prescription required
Your vet must provide a written prescription on request. You can then purchase from any licensed online retailer.
Clinical information
Propodine 10 mg/ml Emulsion for Injection / Infusion for Dogs and Cats — SPC Details
Source: VMD Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC). Last updated 26 Mar 2026.
up to five minutes.
anaesthetic agents.
up to five minutes.
anaesthetic agents.
For intravenous administration.
Shake the vial gently but thoroughly before opening. See section 4.4.
Induction of anaesthesia:
The induction dose of the veterinary medicinal product presented in the table below is
based on published data from controlled laboratory and field studies as well as clinical
experience and represents the average induction dose for dogs and cats. These doses
are for guidance only. The actual dose should be titrated against the response of the
individual patient and may be significantly lower or higher than the average dose.
The dosing syringe should be prepared based on the dose volume of product shown
below, calculated according to bodyweight. The product should be administered to effect
until the depth of anaesthesia is sufficient for endotracheal intubation. When inducing
anaesthesia with propofol it should be injected sufficiently slowly to allow equilibration
between the plasma and the effect site, and sufficiently quickly to avoid redistribution
from the brain resulting in an inadequate plane of anaesthesia (i.e. administration over a
period of approximately 10-40 seconds). Where propofol is used concurrently with an
opioid, it should be administered more slowly, e.g. over 40-60 seconds. See section 4.8.
Use of pre-anaesthetic drugs (premedication) may markedly reduce propofol
requirements dependent of on the type and dose of pre-anaesthetic drugs used. When
propofol is used in combination with e.g. ketamine, fentanyl or benzodiazepines for
induction of anaesthesia (so called co-induction), the total dose of propofol can be further
reduced.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Dosing recommendations for induction of anaesthesia:
Dose
mg/kg
bodyweight
Dose volume
ml/kg
bodyweight
DOGSUnpremedicated6.5 mg/kg0.65 ml/kgPremedicated With non-α-2acepromazine-based)4.0 mg/kg0.40 ml/kg With α-2 agonist2.0 mg/kg0.20 ml/kgCATSUnpremedicated8.0 mg/kg0.80 ml/kgPremedicated With non-α-2(acepromazin-based)6.0 mg/kg0.60 ml/kg With α-2 agonist4.5 mg/kg0.45 ml/kg
Propofol has been used as an induction agent in combination with other premedication
regimens, see section 4.8 for further detail.
Maintenance of anaesthesia:
Following induction of anaesthesia with the veterinary medicinal product, the animal may
be intubated and maintained on the veterinary medicinal product or an inhalation
anaesthetic agent. Maintenance doses of the veterinary medicinal product may be given
as repeat bolus injections or as continuous infusion. Continuous and prolonged exposure
may lead to slower recovery, particularly in cats.
Repeat bolus injection:
Where anaesthesia is maintained by repeat bolus injections, the dose rate and duration
of effect will vary between animals. An incremental dose of approximately 1-2 mg/kg (0.1-
0.2 ml/kg b.w.) in dogs and 0.5-2 mg/kg (0.05-0.2 ml/kg b.w.) in cats may be given to
effect when anaesthesia becomes too light. This dose may be repeated as required to
maintain an appropriate depth of anaesthesia.
Continuous infusion:
For continuous infusion anaesthesia the suggested starting dose rate is
0.3-0.4 mg/kg/min (1.8-2.4 ml/kg/hour) in dogs and 0.2-0.3 mg/kg/min
(1.2-1.8 ml/kg/hour) in cats. Use of pre-anaesthetic drugs (premedication) or concomitant
infusion of e.g. ketamine or opioids may reduce propofol requirements dependent on the
type and dose of drugs used. The actual infusion rate should be based on the response
of the individual patient and the desired depth of anaesthesia and can be adjusted by
0.01-0.05 mg/kg/minute (0.06-0.3 ml/kg/hour) increments based on assessment of
anaesthetic depth and cardiovascular response. When a rapid increase in anaesthetic
depth is warranted, an additional bolus of propofol (0.5-1 mg/kg [0.05-0.1 ml/kg] in dogs
and 0.2-0.5 mg/kg [0.02-0.05 ml/kg] in cats) can be administered.
Shake the vial gently but thoroughly before opening. See section 4.4.
Induction of anaesthesia:
The induction dose of the veterinary medicinal product presented in the table below is
based on published data from controlled laboratory and field studies as well as clinical
experience and represents the average induction dose for dogs and cats. These doses
are for guidance only. The actual dose should be titrated against the response of the
individual patient and may be significantly lower or higher than the average dose.
The dosing syringe should be prepared based on the dose volume of product shown
below, calculated according to bodyweight. The product should be administered to effect
until the depth of anaesthesia is sufficient for endotracheal intubation. When inducing
anaesthesia with propofol it should be injected sufficiently slowly to allow equilibration
between the plasma and the effect site, and sufficiently quickly to avoid redistribution
from the brain resulting in an inadequate plane of anaesthesia (i.e. administration over a
period of approximately 10-40 seconds). Where propofol is used concurrently with an
opioid, it should be administered more slowly, e.g. over 40-60 seconds. See section 4.8.
Use of pre-anaesthetic drugs (premedication) may markedly reduce propofol
requirements dependent of on the type and dose of pre-anaesthetic drugs used. When
propofol is used in combination with e.g. ketamine, fentanyl or benzodiazepines for
induction of anaesthesia (so called co-induction), the total dose of propofol can be further
reduced.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Dosing recommendations for induction of anaesthesia:
Dose
mg/kg
bodyweight
Dose volume
ml/kg
bodyweight
DOGSUnpremedicated6.5 mg/kg0.65 ml/kgPremedicated With non-α-2acepromazine-based)4.0 mg/kg0.40 ml/kg With α-2 agonist2.0 mg/kg0.20 ml/kgCATSUnpremedicated8.0 mg/kg0.80 ml/kgPremedicated With non-α-2(acepromazin-based)6.0 mg/kg0.60 ml/kg With α-2 agonist4.5 mg/kg0.45 ml/kg
Propofol has been used as an induction agent in combination with other premedication
regimens, see section 4.8 for further detail.
Maintenance of anaesthesia:
Following induction of anaesthesia with the veterinary medicinal product, the animal may
be intubated and maintained on the veterinary medicinal product or an inhalation
anaesthetic agent. Maintenance doses of the veterinary medicinal product may be given
as repeat bolus injections or as continuous infusion. Continuous and prolonged exposure
may lead to slower recovery, particularly in cats.
Repeat bolus injection:
Where anaesthesia is maintained by repeat bolus injections, the dose rate and duration
of effect will vary between animals. An incremental dose of approximately 1-2 mg/kg (0.1-
0.2 ml/kg b.w.) in dogs and 0.5-2 mg/kg (0.05-0.2 ml/kg b.w.) in cats may be given to
effect when anaesthesia becomes too light. This dose may be repeated as required to
maintain an appropriate depth of anaesthesia.
Continuous infusion:
For continuous infusion anaesthesia the suggested starting dose rate is
0.3-0.4 mg/kg/min (1.8-2.4 ml/kg/hour) in dogs and 0.2-0.3 mg/kg/min
(1.2-1.8 ml/kg/hour) in cats. Use of pre-anaesthetic drugs (premedication) or concomitant
infusion of e.g. ketamine or opioids may reduce propofol requirements dependent on the
type and dose of drugs used. The actual infusion rate should be based on the response
of the individual patient and the desired depth of anaesthesia and can be adjusted by
0.01-0.05 mg/kg/minute (0.06-0.3 ml/kg/hour) increments based on assessment of
anaesthetic depth and cardiovascular response. When a rapid increase in anaesthetic
depth is warranted, an additional bolus of propofol (0.5-1 mg/kg [0.05-0.1 ml/kg] in dogs
and 0.2-0.5 mg/kg [0.02-0.05 ml/kg] in cats) can be administered.
Do not use in cases of hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients.
Induction is generally smooth, however evidence of excitation (e.g. paddling of limbs,
nystagmus, focal muscle twitching/myoclonus, opisthotonus) is commonly observed in
dogs and cats. Transient apnoea and mild hypotension may very commonly occur during
induction of anaesthesia. An increase of arterial blood pressure followed by a decrease
can be observed. See section 4.5. A reduction in the percentage of haemoglobin which is
saturated with oxygen (SpO2) may be observed in the absence of apnoea.
Cases of excessive salivation and vomiting have been reported uncommonly during the
recovery phase in dogs. Excitation during the recovery phase has been observed rarely
in dogs.
Limb rigidity and persistent hiccough has been observed very rarely in dogs.
There has been an isolated report in a dog of green discolouration of urine following a
prolonged propofol infusion.
In cats, sneezing, occasional retching and a paw/face licking characteristic during
recovery have been observed in a small proportion of cases (uncommon).
Repeated longer-duration (>20 minutes) anaesthesia with propofol in cats may cause
oxidative injury and Heinz body formation, and non-specific signs such as anorexia,
diarrhoea and mild facial oedema. Recovery may also be prolonged. Limiting repeated
anaesthesia to intervals of more than 48 hours will reduce the likelihood.
The frequency of adverse reactions is defined using the following convention:
- very common (more than 1 in 10 animals treated displaying adverse reaction(s))
- common (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 100 animals treated)
- uncommon (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 1,000 animals treated)
- rare (more than 1 but less than in 10 animals in 10,000 animals treated)
- very rare (less than 1 animal in 10,000 animals treated, including isolated reports).
nystagmus, focal muscle twitching/myoclonus, opisthotonus) is commonly observed in
dogs and cats. Transient apnoea and mild hypotension may very commonly occur during
induction of anaesthesia. An increase of arterial blood pressure followed by a decrease
can be observed. See section 4.5. A reduction in the percentage of haemoglobin which is
saturated with oxygen (SpO2) may be observed in the absence of apnoea.
Cases of excessive salivation and vomiting have been reported uncommonly during the
recovery phase in dogs. Excitation during the recovery phase has been observed rarely
in dogs.
Limb rigidity and persistent hiccough has been observed very rarely in dogs.
There has been an isolated report in a dog of green discolouration of urine following a
prolonged propofol infusion.
In cats, sneezing, occasional retching and a paw/face licking characteristic during
recovery have been observed in a small proportion of cases (uncommon).
Repeated longer-duration (>20 minutes) anaesthesia with propofol in cats may cause
oxidative injury and Heinz body formation, and non-specific signs such as anorexia,
diarrhoea and mild facial oedema. Recovery may also be prolonged. Limiting repeated
anaesthesia to intervals of more than 48 hours will reduce the likelihood.
The frequency of adverse reactions is defined using the following convention:
- very common (more than 1 in 10 animals treated displaying adverse reaction(s))
- common (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 100 animals treated)
- uncommon (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 1,000 animals treated)
- rare (more than 1 but less than in 10 animals in 10,000 animals treated)
- very rare (less than 1 animal in 10,000 animals treated, including isolated reports).
This product is a stable emulsion. Prior to use, the product should be inspected visually
for the absence of visible droplets or extraneous foreign particles and discarded if
present. Do not use if evidence of phase separation remains after gentle shaking.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
If the product is injected too slowly, an inadequate plane of anaesthesia can occur, due
to failure to reach the appropriate threshold of pharmacological activity.
Special precautions for use in animals
During induction of anaesthesia, mild hypotension and transient apnoea may occur.
If the product is injected too rapidly, cardiopulmonary depression may occur (apnoea,
bradycardia, hypotension).
When using the veterinary medicinal product, facilities for the maintenance of a patent
airway, artificial ventilation and oxygen enrichment must be available. Following induction
of anaesthesia, the use of an endotracheal tube is recommended. It is advisable to
administer supplemental oxygen during maintenance of anaesthesia.
Caution should be exercised in dogs and cats with cardiac, respiratory, renal or hepatic
impairment, or in hypovolaemic or debilitated animals.
When propofol is used concomitantly with opioids, an anticholinergic agent (e.g. atropine)
may be used in cases of bradycardia according to the benefit/risk assessment by the
responsible veterinarian. See section 4.8.
Care should be taken when administering the product to patients with hypoproteinaemia,
hyperlipidaemia or very thin animals since these animals may be more susceptible to
adverse effects.
Propofol does not have analgesic properties, therefore supplementary analgesic agents
should be provided in cases where procedures are anticipated to be painful.
It has been reported that clearance of propofol is slower and incidence of apnoea is
greater in dogs over 8 years of age than in younger animals. Extra care should be taken
when administering the product to these animals, for example, a lower dose of propofol
may be adequate for induction in such cases.
The safety of the product has not been established in dogs or cats younger than 4
months and should be used in these animals only according to the risk/benefit
assessment by the responsible veterinarian.
Sighthounds have been reported to show a slower clearance of propofol and may have a
slightly longer duration of recovery from anaesthesia compared to other breeds of dog.
Use aseptic techniques when administering the product as it does not contain an
antimicrobial preservative.
Special precautions to be taken by the person administering the veterinary medicinal
product to animals
Propofol is a potent drug: particular care should be taken to avoid accidental self-
administration. A guarded needle should preferably be used until the moment of injection.
In case of accidental self-injection, seek medical advice immediately and show the
package leaflet or the label to the physician, but DO NOT DRIVE as sedation may occur.
Avoid contact with the skin and eyes as this product can cause irritation. Wash off
splashes from the skin and eyes immediately with plenty of water. Seek medical advice if
irritation persists.
This product may cause hypersensitivity (allergy) reactions in those that are already
sensitised to propofol or other drugs, soya or egg. People with known hypersensitivity to
these substances should avoid contact with the veterinary medicinal product.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Advice to the doctor:
Do not leave the patient unattended. Maintain airways and give symptomatic and
supportive treatment.
for the absence of visible droplets or extraneous foreign particles and discarded if
present. Do not use if evidence of phase separation remains after gentle shaking.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
If the product is injected too slowly, an inadequate plane of anaesthesia can occur, due
to failure to reach the appropriate threshold of pharmacological activity.
Special precautions for use in animals
During induction of anaesthesia, mild hypotension and transient apnoea may occur.
If the product is injected too rapidly, cardiopulmonary depression may occur (apnoea,
bradycardia, hypotension).
When using the veterinary medicinal product, facilities for the maintenance of a patent
airway, artificial ventilation and oxygen enrichment must be available. Following induction
of anaesthesia, the use of an endotracheal tube is recommended. It is advisable to
administer supplemental oxygen during maintenance of anaesthesia.
Caution should be exercised in dogs and cats with cardiac, respiratory, renal or hepatic
impairment, or in hypovolaemic or debilitated animals.
When propofol is used concomitantly with opioids, an anticholinergic agent (e.g. atropine)
may be used in cases of bradycardia according to the benefit/risk assessment by the
responsible veterinarian. See section 4.8.
Care should be taken when administering the product to patients with hypoproteinaemia,
hyperlipidaemia or very thin animals since these animals may be more susceptible to
adverse effects.
Propofol does not have analgesic properties, therefore supplementary analgesic agents
should be provided in cases where procedures are anticipated to be painful.
It has been reported that clearance of propofol is slower and incidence of apnoea is
greater in dogs over 8 years of age than in younger animals. Extra care should be taken
when administering the product to these animals, for example, a lower dose of propofol
may be adequate for induction in such cases.
The safety of the product has not been established in dogs or cats younger than 4
months and should be used in these animals only according to the risk/benefit
assessment by the responsible veterinarian.
Sighthounds have been reported to show a slower clearance of propofol and may have a
slightly longer duration of recovery from anaesthesia compared to other breeds of dog.
Use aseptic techniques when administering the product as it does not contain an
antimicrobial preservative.
Special precautions to be taken by the person administering the veterinary medicinal
product to animals
Propofol is a potent drug: particular care should be taken to avoid accidental self-
administration. A guarded needle should preferably be used until the moment of injection.
In case of accidental self-injection, seek medical advice immediately and show the
package leaflet or the label to the physician, but DO NOT DRIVE as sedation may occur.
Avoid contact with the skin and eyes as this product can cause irritation. Wash off
splashes from the skin and eyes immediately with plenty of water. Seek medical advice if
irritation persists.
This product may cause hypersensitivity (allergy) reactions in those that are already
sensitised to propofol or other drugs, soya or egg. People with known hypersensitivity to
these substances should avoid contact with the veterinary medicinal product.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Advice to the doctor:
Do not leave the patient unattended. Maintain airways and give symptomatic and
supportive treatment.
Propofol has been used in association with commonly used premedicants (e.g. atropine,
acepromazine, benzodiazepines [e.g. diazepam, midazolam], [e.g.
medetomidine, dexmedetomidine], opioids [e.g. methadone, buprenorphine]), other
induction agents (e.g. ketamine) and prior to maintenance with inhalational agents (e.g.
halothane, nitrous oxide, isoflurane, sevoflurane).
The concurrent use of sedative or analgesic drugs is likely to reduce the dose of propofol
required for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. See section 4.9.
Concomitant use of propofol and opioids may cause significant respiratory depression
and a profound decrease in heart rate. Cardiac arrest has been observed in dogs that
received propofol followed by alfentanil. To reduce the risk of apnoea, propofol should be
administered slowly, for example, over 40-60 seconds. See also section 4.5.
Co-administration of propofol and opioid (e.g. fentanyl, alfentanil) infusions for
maintenance of general anaesthesia may result in a prolonged recovery.
Administration of propofol with other drugs that are metabolised by cytochrome P450
(isoenzyme 2B11 in the dog) such as e.g. chloramphenicol, ketoconazole and
loperamide, reduces propofol clearance and prolongs recovery from anaesthesia.
acepromazine, benzodiazepines [e.g. diazepam, midazolam], [e.g.
medetomidine, dexmedetomidine], opioids [e.g. methadone, buprenorphine]), other
induction agents (e.g. ketamine) and prior to maintenance with inhalational agents (e.g.
halothane, nitrous oxide, isoflurane, sevoflurane).
The concurrent use of sedative or analgesic drugs is likely to reduce the dose of propofol
required for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. See section 4.9.
Concomitant use of propofol and opioids may cause significant respiratory depression
and a profound decrease in heart rate. Cardiac arrest has been observed in dogs that
received propofol followed by alfentanil. To reduce the risk of apnoea, propofol should be
administered slowly, for example, over 40-60 seconds. See also section 4.5.
Co-administration of propofol and opioid (e.g. fentanyl, alfentanil) infusions for
maintenance of general anaesthesia may result in a prolonged recovery.
Administration of propofol with other drugs that are metabolised by cytochrome P450
(isoenzyme 2B11 in the dog) such as e.g. chloramphenicol, ketoconazole and
loperamide, reduces propofol clearance and prolongs recovery from anaesthesia.
Do not freeze.
Store in the outer carton in order to protect from light.
Withdrawn product should be used immediately. Product remaining in the vial should be
discarded.
Store in the outer carton in order to protect from light.
Withdrawn product should be used immediately. Product remaining in the vial should be
discarded.
saturated with oxygen (SpO2) may be observed in the absence of apnoea.
Cases of excessive salivation and vomiting have been reported uncommonly during the
recovery phase in dogs. Excitation during the recovery phase has been observed rarely
in dogs.
Limb rigidity and persistent hiccough has been observed very rarely in dogs.
There has been an isolated report in a dog of green discolouration of urine following a
prolonged propofol infusion.
In cats, sneezing, occasional retching and a paw/face licking characteristic during
recovery have been observed in a small proportion of cases (uncommon).
Repeated longer-duration (>20 minutes) anaesthesia with propofol in cats may cause
oxidative injury and Heinz body formation, and non-specific signs such as anorexia,
diarrhoea and mild facial oedema. Recovery may also be prolonged. Limiting repeated
anaesthesia to intervals of more than 48 hours will reduce the likelihood.
The frequency of adverse reactions is defined using the following convention:
- very common (more than 1 in 10 animals treated displaying adverse reaction(s))
- common (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 100 animals treated)
- uncommon (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 1,000 animals treated)
- rare (more than 1 but less than in 10 animals in 10,000 animals treated)
- very rare (less than 1 animal in 10,000 animals treated, including isolated reports).
4.7 Use during pregnancy, lactation or lay
The safety of the veterinary medicinal product has not been established during
pregnancy (in foetuses/neonates) and during lactation.
Propofol crosses the placenta. Studies using propofol in pregnant rats and rabbits have
demonstrated no deleterious effects on gestation of the treated animals, or on the
reproductive performance of their offspring. However, according to available scientific
literature, exposure (non-human primates: moderate plane of anaesthesia for 5h; rats:
0.3-0.6 mg/kg/min for 1-2h) to propofol during the period of brain development may
adversely affect the neurological development in foetuses and neonates.
Studies in humans showed that small quantities (<0.1% of maternal dose within 24h after
dosing) of propofol are excreted in human breastmilk.
Use only according to the benefit/risk assessment by the responsible veterinarian.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Propofol has been safely used in dogs for the induction of anaesthesia prior to delivery of
puppies by caesarean section. Owing to risk of neonatal death, the use of propofol for the
maintenance of anaesthesia during caesarean section is not recommended.
4.8 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction
Propofol has been used in association with commonly used premedicants (e.g. atropine,
acepromazine, benzodiazepines [e.g. diazepam, midazolam], [e.g.
medetomidine, dexmedetomidine], opioids [e.g. methadone, buprenorphine]), other
induction agents (e.g. ketamine) and prior to maintenance with inhalational agents (e.g.
halothane, nitrous oxide, isoflurane, sevoflurane).
The concurrent use of sedative or analgesic drugs is likely to reduce the dose of propofol
required for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. See section 4.9.
Concomitant use of propofol and opioids may cause significant respiratory depression
and a profound decrease in heart rate. Cardiac arrest has been observed in dogs that
received propofol followed by alfentanil. To reduce the risk of apnoea, propofol should be
administered slowly, for example, over 40-60 seconds. See also section 4.5.
Co-administration of propofol and opioid (e.g. fentanyl, alfentanil) infusions for
maintenance of general anaesthesia may result in a prolonged recovery.
Administration of propofol with other drugs that are metabolised by cytochrome P450
(isoenzyme 2B11 in the dog) such as e.g. chloramphenicol, ketoconazole and
loperamide, reduces propofol clearance and prolongs recovery from anaesthesia.
4.9 Amounts to be administered and administration route
For intravenous administration.
Shake the vial gently but thoroughly before opening. See section 4.4.
Induction of anaesthesia:
The induction dose of the veterinary medicinal product presented in the table below is
based on published data from controlled laboratory and field studies as well as clinical
experience and represents the average induction dose for dogs and cats. These doses
are for guidance only. The actual dose should be titrated against the response of the
individual patient and may be significantly lower or higher than the average dose.
The dosing syringe should be prepared based on the dose volume of product shown
below, calculated according to bodyweight. The product should be administered to effect
until the depth of anaesthesia is sufficient for endotracheal intubation. When inducing
anaesthesia with propofol it should be injected sufficiently slowly to allow equilibration
between the plasma and the effect site, and sufficiently quickly to avoid redistribution
from the brain resulting in an inadequate plane of anaesthesia (i.e. administration over a
period of approximately 10-40 seconds). Where propofol is used concurrently with an
opioid, it should be administered more slowly, e.g. over 40-60 seconds. See section 4.8.
Use of pre-anaesthetic drugs (premedication) may markedly reduce propofol
requirements dependent of on the type and dose of pre-anaesthetic drugs used. When
propofol is used in combination with e.g. ketamine, fentanyl or benzodiazepines for
induction of anaesthesia (so called co-induction), the total dose of propofol can be further
reduced.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Dosing recommendations for induction of anaesthesia:
Dose
mg/kg
bodyweight
Dose volume
ml/kg
bodyweight
DOGSUnpremedicated
Cases of excessive salivation and vomiting have been reported uncommonly during the
recovery phase in dogs. Excitation during the recovery phase has been observed rarely
in dogs.
Limb rigidity and persistent hiccough has been observed very rarely in dogs.
There has been an isolated report in a dog of green discolouration of urine following a
prolonged propofol infusion.
In cats, sneezing, occasional retching and a paw/face licking characteristic during
recovery have been observed in a small proportion of cases (uncommon).
Repeated longer-duration (>20 minutes) anaesthesia with propofol in cats may cause
oxidative injury and Heinz body formation, and non-specific signs such as anorexia,
diarrhoea and mild facial oedema. Recovery may also be prolonged. Limiting repeated
anaesthesia to intervals of more than 48 hours will reduce the likelihood.
The frequency of adverse reactions is defined using the following convention:
- very common (more than 1 in 10 animals treated displaying adverse reaction(s))
- common (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 100 animals treated)
- uncommon (more than 1 but less than 10 animals in 1,000 animals treated)
- rare (more than 1 but less than in 10 animals in 10,000 animals treated)
- very rare (less than 1 animal in 10,000 animals treated, including isolated reports).
4.7 Use during pregnancy, lactation or lay
The safety of the veterinary medicinal product has not been established during
pregnancy (in foetuses/neonates) and during lactation.
Propofol crosses the placenta. Studies using propofol in pregnant rats and rabbits have
demonstrated no deleterious effects on gestation of the treated animals, or on the
reproductive performance of their offspring. However, according to available scientific
literature, exposure (non-human primates: moderate plane of anaesthesia for 5h; rats:
0.3-0.6 mg/kg/min for 1-2h) to propofol during the period of brain development may
adversely affect the neurological development in foetuses and neonates.
Studies in humans showed that small quantities (<0.1% of maternal dose within 24h after
dosing) of propofol are excreted in human breastmilk.
Use only according to the benefit/risk assessment by the responsible veterinarian.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Propofol has been safely used in dogs for the induction of anaesthesia prior to delivery of
puppies by caesarean section. Owing to risk of neonatal death, the use of propofol for the
maintenance of anaesthesia during caesarean section is not recommended.
4.8 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction
Propofol has been used in association with commonly used premedicants (e.g. atropine,
acepromazine, benzodiazepines [e.g. diazepam, midazolam], [e.g.
medetomidine, dexmedetomidine], opioids [e.g. methadone, buprenorphine]), other
induction agents (e.g. ketamine) and prior to maintenance with inhalational agents (e.g.
halothane, nitrous oxide, isoflurane, sevoflurane).
The concurrent use of sedative or analgesic drugs is likely to reduce the dose of propofol
required for induction and maintenance of anaesthesia. See section 4.9.
Concomitant use of propofol and opioids may cause significant respiratory depression
and a profound decrease in heart rate. Cardiac arrest has been observed in dogs that
received propofol followed by alfentanil. To reduce the risk of apnoea, propofol should be
administered slowly, for example, over 40-60 seconds. See also section 4.5.
Co-administration of propofol and opioid (e.g. fentanyl, alfentanil) infusions for
maintenance of general anaesthesia may result in a prolonged recovery.
Administration of propofol with other drugs that are metabolised by cytochrome P450
(isoenzyme 2B11 in the dog) such as e.g. chloramphenicol, ketoconazole and
loperamide, reduces propofol clearance and prolongs recovery from anaesthesia.
4.9 Amounts to be administered and administration route
For intravenous administration.
Shake the vial gently but thoroughly before opening. See section 4.4.
Induction of anaesthesia:
The induction dose of the veterinary medicinal product presented in the table below is
based on published data from controlled laboratory and field studies as well as clinical
experience and represents the average induction dose for dogs and cats. These doses
are for guidance only. The actual dose should be titrated against the response of the
individual patient and may be significantly lower or higher than the average dose.
The dosing syringe should be prepared based on the dose volume of product shown
below, calculated according to bodyweight. The product should be administered to effect
until the depth of anaesthesia is sufficient for endotracheal intubation. When inducing
anaesthesia with propofol it should be injected sufficiently slowly to allow equilibration
between the plasma and the effect site, and sufficiently quickly to avoid redistribution
from the brain resulting in an inadequate plane of anaesthesia (i.e. administration over a
period of approximately 10-40 seconds). Where propofol is used concurrently with an
opioid, it should be administered more slowly, e.g. over 40-60 seconds. See section 4.8.
Use of pre-anaesthetic drugs (premedication) may markedly reduce propofol
requirements dependent of on the type and dose of pre-anaesthetic drugs used. When
propofol is used in combination with e.g. ketamine, fentanyl or benzodiazepines for
induction of anaesthesia (so called co-induction), the total dose of propofol can be further
reduced.
Unlimited Renewal: September 2023
AN: 01560/2023
Dosing recommendations for induction of anaesthesia:
Dose
mg/kg
bodyweight
Dose volume
ml/kg
bodyweight
DOGSUnpremedicated
This information is sourced from the official Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) published by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD). It is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before administering any medication.
Medication costs adding up?
Pet insurance can cover prescription medications. Find the right policy for your pet.
Same active ingredient
Other Products Containing Propofol
These products share the same active ingredient and may be suitable alternatives. Always consult your vet.
Inductofol 10 mg/ml Emulsion for Injection for Cats and Dogs
POM-VNorbrook Laboratories Limited
injection
Cats
Dogs
Norofol 10 mg/ml Emulsion for Injection for Cats and Dogs
POM-VNorbrook Laboratories Limited
injection
Cats
Dogs
PropoFlo Plus, 10 mg/ml, Emulsion for Injection for Dogs and Cats
POM-VZoetis Belgium S.A.
injection
Cats
Dogs
PropoFlo Plus, 10 mg/ml, Emulsion for Injection for Dogs and Cats
POM-VZoetis UK Limited
injection
Cats
Dogs
Propofol-Lipuro Vet 10 mg/ml Emulsion for Injection
POM-VB. Braun Melsungen AG
injection
Cats
Dogs
Propomitor 10 mg/ml Emulsion for Injection/Infusion for Dogs and Cats
POM-VOrion Corporation
injection
Cats
Dogs
Alternative options to consider
Retailers we earn a commission from. It costs you nothing and never changes what we show.
The Pharm Pet Co.
The Pharm Pet Co. — Pet Pharmacy
UK online pet pharmacy. Flea, worm, prescription medications, supplements and pet food. Save vs vet prices.
Save up to 50%
Shop now
Pharmacy2U
Pet Care at Pharmacy2U
The UK's largest online pharmacy. Pet wormers, flea treatments, dental and joint care. Free delivery on orders over £30.
Free delivery £30+
Shop now
Petlibro
Petlibro Automatic Feeder
Smart automatic pet feeder with app control. Schedule meals, portion control, and feeding history.
From £49.99
Shop now
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Also in anaesthetic
Related Medications
Adrenacaine Solution for Injection for Cattle
POM-VPSEpinephrine + Procaine Hydrochloride
injection
Rx
Cattle
Alfaxan Multidose 10 mg/ml Solution for Injection for Dogs, Cats and Pet Rabbits
POM-VAlfaxalone
injection
Rx
Cats
Dogs
Alfaxan Multidose 10 mg/ml Solution for Injection for Dogs, Cats and Pet Rabbits
POM-VAlfaxalone
injection
Rx
Cats
Dogs
Anaestamine 100 mg/ml Solution for Injection
POM-VKetamine
injection
Rx
Cats
Cattle
Anesketin 100 mg/ml Solution for Injection for Dogs, Cats and Horses
POM-VKetamine
injection
Rx
Cats
Dogs
Anesketin 100 mg/ml Solution for Injection for Dogs, Cats and Horses
POM-VKetamine
injection
Rx
Cats
Dogs
Find cheaper vets near you
Compare vet consultation prices in your area. Save on procedures and get a prescription to buy medications online.