VARIATION IN INDUCTION DOSE AND TIME OF PROPOFOL ON ADMINISTERING INHALED NITROUS OXIDE DURING INDUCTION: A PROSPECTIVE, RANDOMISED CONTROLLED STUDY

Abstract

Background: Commonly used intravenous induction agent, propofol is in contemporary anesthesia practice, valued for its rapid onset, amnestic properties, and ability to provide optimal conditions for intubation. However, its use is associated with dose-dependent adverse effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. Nitrous oxide, though a weak anesthetic, offers analgesic and anxiolytic benefits and is often used as an adjuvant to reduce the requirement for intravenous agents. The present study explores the role of inhaled nitrous oxide in optimizing propofol induction by reducing its dose and onset time while maintaining hemodynamic stability. Aim: To evaluate the variation in induction dose and induction time of propofol when combined with inhaled nitrous oxide during general anesthesia. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted on 96 patients (ASA I and II, aged 18–60 years) undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia at R.L. Jalappa Hospital. Participants were randomly divided into two groups (n=48 each). Group A received 70% nitrous oxide with 30% oxygen and propofol infusion; Group B received 100% oxygen with propofol infusion. Induction time, propofol dose, and hemodynamic parameters were recorded and analyzed using standard statistical tests. Results: Group A demonstrated significantly shorter induction times (p<0.05), with 85.4% achieving induction in <200 seconds compared to 12.5% in Group B. Propofol dose was also significantly lower in Group A. The systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressures, was better maintained in Group A. Heart rate differences were not statistically significant. XX Conclusion: The co-administration of inhaled nitrous oxide significantly reduces propofol induction time and dose while enhancing hemodynamic stability. This combination can be a safer and more efficient approach to anesthesia induction.