Comparison of the new emulsion formulation of propofol with methohexitone and thiopentone for induction of anaesthesia in day cases.

The new emulsion formulation of di-isopropyl phenol (propofol) was compared with methohexitone and thiopentone for induction of anaesthesia in day cases. Propofol produced significantly smoother induction of anaesthesia, but caused more cardiovascular and respiratory depression. Pain on injection was significantly less than with methohexitone. Post-anaesthetic recovery was superior with propofol, with virtual absence of side effects, and rapid recovery with little impairment of psychomotor function 30 min after anaesthesia.