Intravenous anaesthetic agents
Pandit JJ.
This article summarizes the properties of the drugs frequently used for intravenous induction of anaesthesia. The mechanism of general anaesthesia is still largely unknown, and so the physicochemical properties, metabolism and side effects of these drugs are more relevant to their use than the way that they cause unconsciousness. This article also highlights some historical aspects of anaesthesia and new developments in drug administration. © 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.