Tag: Apnea

Provisional data indicates that in 2024, there were an estimated 54,743 opioid-involved overdose deaths in the U.S., a condition often marked by severe respiratory depression [1.9.2]. So, **what drug stimulates breathing** in these critical situations? The answer lies in a class of medications known as respiratory stimulants.

Propofol is a widely used intravenous anesthetic and sedative, but its respiratory effects are a major consideration for healthcare providers. During anesthesia induction, propofol is known to cause apnea in a significant percentage of patients. The critical clinical question, **does propofol cause apnea?**, is central to understanding safe administration practices and managing potential complications.

Modern anesthesia is extremely safe, and continuous monitoring is standard practice, which means that if you stop breathing while under anesthesia, a trained medical professional is immediately aware and prepared to intervene. Anesthesia machines are equipped with ventilators that can breathe for the patient to prevent a life-threatening event from occurring.