Abstract
Since the death of Michael Jackson last year, the serious matter of propofol abuse has become a much-discussed issue. This abuse is especially prevalent among medical professionals, who have access to this dangerous drug — a drug that is still not considered a controlled substance. This article reviews the clinical indications, pharmacology, adverse effects, and abuse potential of drug, as well as published reports of propofol-related accidental deaths and suicides. It also cites a recent report of homicide by propofol. ————————————————-
http://www.thepoisonreview.com/2010/10/26/propofol-effects-blood-levels-and-abuse/ Propofol is a drug that slows the activity of your brain and nervous system. It reduces anxiety and tension and promotes relaxation and sleep. It also is used to help you relax before and during general anesthesia for surgery or other medical procedure. Several cases of propofol dependency and abusive use for recreational intentions emerged.
Methods have been used to detect and limit propofol concentration in biological specimens. Reported cases of propofol-related deaths and suicides are reviewed and limitations of propofol detection are discussed. Because of the drug’s potential for diversion with lethal consequences, people should have a basic understanding regarding its clinical indications and uses.
A number of analytical methods have been employed to detect and quantify propofol concentrations in biological specimens. The reported propofol-related deaths and postmortem blood and tissue levels are reviewed. Importantly, limitations of propofol detection are discussed, and future considerations are presented.
Because propofol has the potential for diversion with lethal consequences, the forensic scientist must have a basic understanding of its clinical indications and uses, pharmacologic properties, and detection methods. In addition, medical institutions should develop systems to prevent and detect diversion of this potential drug.