The new formulation of I.C.I. 35868 (propofol) as the main agent for minor surgical procedures.

Thirty unpremedicated patients for day-case surgery were anaesthetized with 2.5 mg kg-1 of a new formulation of I.C.I. 35868 (propofol: Diprivan--I.C.I.) in a lipid emulsion. An initial bolus of fentanyl (1-1.5 micrograms kg-1) was given. Anaesthesia was maintained with intermittent boluses of propofol (1 mg kg-1) with no other agent added. The significant problems were: a high incidence of pain on injection (30%) and apnoea following induction lasting more than 30 s (57%). Cardiovascular depression was significant but not considered excessive. Recovery from the drug was rapid and uneventful, with no reported hangover effect.