What is the primary mechanism of action for most intravenous general anesthetics like Propofol and Etomidate?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Potentiation of GABA-A receptor-mediated chloride currents
Propofol and Etomidate act as positive allosteric modulators of the GABA-A receptor. By increasing the frequency or duration of chloride channel opening, they hyperpolarize neurons and induce a state of sedation and hypnosis.
Keep practicing
More General Anesthetics questions
- Malignant Hyperthermia is a life-threatening complication of volatile anesthetics and Succinylcholine. Which drug is used as the specific a…
- Which intravenous anesthetic is known for producing 'dissociative anesthesia' and is an antagonist at the NMDA receptor?
- Which inhaled anesthetic carries a rare risk of immune-mediated hepatic necrosis caused by its metabolism into reactive trifluoroacetylated…
- Propofol is formulated as a lipid emulsion. Which patient allergy is a relative contraindication to its use?
- What is the effect of an increased Cardiac Output (CO) on the rate of induction with a highly soluble inhaled anesthetic?
- Which anesthetic agent is the preferred choice for 'smooth' inhalation induction in pediatric patients due to its pleasant smell and lack o…