Anesthesiology
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Propofol (2,6-diisopropylphenol) is one of the most frequently used anesthetic agents. One of the main side effects of propofol is to reduce blood pressure, which is thought to occur by inhibiting the release of catecholamines from sympathetic neurons. Here, the authors hypothesized that propofol-induced hypotension is not simply the result of suppression of the release mechanisms for catecholamines. ⋯ Propofol at clinically relevant concentrations promotes the catecholamine release as long as Ca influx is supported. This unexpected finding will allow for a better understanding in preventing propofol-induced hypotension.