Bradycardia following propofol induction

Propofol has been described as a potent hypnotic drug producing anaesthesia within one arm-brain circulation time, possessing a rapid recovery time and causing minimal postoperative sequelae. It has also been associated with dose-dependent fall in blood pressure on induction with a slightly higher incidence and longer period of post-induction apnea. It may be used for adults before an uncomfortable procedure, to relax and reduce awareness but not cause deep sleep. It is also used to reduce awareness and cause sleep for adults who are being treated in an intensive care unit. Our report of A 48yr old female, weight 55 kg and height 152 cm, posted for excision of fibroadenoma of right breast. Her medical history included high blood pressure, diabetes, and gastroesophageal reflux. Medications on admission included telmisartan, omeprazole, metformin. She was asymptomatic on all these medications. She showed that induction with propofol can cause bradycardia. There are several reports in the literature as well which suggested that how during propofol anaesthesia a low heart rate may occur. The bradycardia may be prevented by premedication with atropine.