Pharmacokinetic study of propofol in horses

Abstract

Pharmacokinetic variables of propofol were studied in 6 horses. Blood concentration of propofol at different times, after a single dose of 2.4 mg/kg bw, was determined by HPLC. An open two compartment model was used to evaluate blood concentrations of propofol. Values of t_1/2α, t_1/2β, Vd_c, Vd_ss, Vdβ, Cl_total y MRT were obtained. The pharmacodynamic values show a narrow relationship with the pharmacokinetic disposition of this drug. Propofol’s pharmacokinetic disposition presented a rapid distribution and removal from organic tissues. It is concluded that propofol is an alternative to be considered in anaesthetic protocols in horses, and the pharmacokinetic variables presented contribute to determine the appropriate dose to be given.