Which best describes the cardiovascular effects of propofol?

Which best describes the cardiovascular effects of propofol?

• A. Increases BP and SVR
• B. No effect on cardiac function
• C. Decreases BP, SVR, preload, and contractility
• D. Increases myocardial contractility

Answer: (C)

Propofol mainly depresses the cardiovascular system by causing vasodilation and venodilation, which lowers systemic vascular resistance and venous return. The reduced venous return decreases preload, and there is often a modest negative inotropic effect that can reduce contractility. Together, these effects produce a dose-dependent drop in arterial blood pressure. This makes the description that BP, SVR, preload, and contractility are decreased the most accurate reflection of propofol’s cardiovascular impact. It does not increase BP or SVR, and it can affect, rather than leave unchanged, cardiac function, so the other statements don’t fit.

Propofol mainly depresses the cardiovascular system by causing vasodilation and venodilation, which lowers systemic vascular resistance and venous return. The reduced venous return decreases preload, and there is often a modest negative inotropic effect that can reduce contractility. Together, these effects produce a dose-dependent drop in arterial blood pressure. This makes the description that BP, SVR, preload, and contractility are decreased the most accurate reflection of propofol’s cardiovascular impact. It does not increase BP or SVR, and it can affect, rather than leave unchanged, cardiac function, so the other statements don’t fit.