Best Drugs for Anaesthesia
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Written by Dr. Jannat Shayyan
Anaesthesia helps people feel no pain during surgery. It can make you sleep or just numb one part of your body. There are different drugs used by doctors. Each drug has its own use, effect, and side effect. Let’s learn about the best and most common anaesthesia drugs.
1. Propofol
Use:
Propofol is used for general anaesthesia. It makes the patient sleep before surgery. It is given by injection.
Effects:
- Works very fast (within seconds)
- Keeps patient asleep during surgery
- Patient wakes up quickly after surgery
Side Effects:
- Low blood pressure
- Slow breathing
- Pain at the injection site
- Feeling sleepy or dizzy after waking up
2. Lidocaine
Use:
Lidocaine is used for local anaesthesia. It numbs a small part of the body. It is used in dental work, stitching cuts, or small surgeries.
Effects:
- Fast numbing
- No pain in the area
- Works for a short time
Side Effects:
- Burning or itching at the site
- Dizziness
- Rarely, allergic reaction (swelling or rash)
3. Ketamine
Use:
Ketamine is used for general anaesthesia, especially in emergencies. It is good for patients with low blood pressure or trauma cases.
Effects:
- Strong pain relief
- Keeps breathing normal
- Makes patient sleep
Side Effects:
- Hallucinations (seeing strange things)
- Confusion after waking up
- Increase in blood pressure and heart rate
4. Isoflurane
Use:
Isoflurane is a gas used for general anaesthesia. It is given through a mask to make the patient sleep during surgery.
Effects:
- Keeps the patient asleep for long surgeries
- Easy to control by doctors
- Safe for most patients
Side Effects:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shivering after surgery
- Drop in blood pressure
- Rare liver problems
5. Midazolam
Use:
Midazolam is used before surgery to calm the patient. It also helps with sleep and reduces anxiety.
Effects:
- Makes the patient feel relaxed
- Makes the patient forget the procedure
- Mild sleepiness
Side Effects:
- Drowsiness for a few hours
- Confusion or memory loss
- Slow breathing if high dose is given
Important Safety Tips:
- Only trained anaesthetists should give these drugs.
- Always tell your doctor about your allergies or other health problems.
- Do not eat or drink before anaesthesia unless your doctor says it’s okay.
- Follow all instructions before and after surgery.
Conclusion
Anaesthesia drugs help in pain-free and safe surgery. Each drug is used for a specific reason. Doctors select the best drug based on the type of surgery and patient’s health. Understanding the use, effect, and side effects helps patients feel more comfortable and prepared.
