This medicine causes a person to relax or sleep (be unconscious) before and during a surgery. Also given to people in an intensive care unit (ICU).

Brand Name(s):

Diprivan, Diprivan VHA Plus, Diprivan Novaplus, Amidate

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• You will receive this medicine in a hospital or surgery center. A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney disease, pancreas problems, or high cholesterol. Make sure your doctor knows if you have ever had a head injury, stroke, or seizures, including epilepsy.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Lightheadedness or fainting (after you awake from surgery).
• Muscle stiffness.
• Seizures.
• Slow or uneven heartbeat.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Blurred vision.
• Cough, sore throat.
• Headache, mood changes, unusual dreams.
• Mild nausea or vomiting.
• Mild skin rash.
• Muscle pain, tightness, or weakness.
• Pain, swelling, or skin changes where the needle is placed.
• Shivering, shaking, or trembling.