See the DrugPatentWatch profile for diprivan
Diprivan is the brand name for propofol, an intravenous anesthetic medication. It is used to induce and maintain anesthesia, as well as for sedation during diagnostic procedures and mechanical ventilation in intensive care units [1].
How does Diprivan work?
Propofol works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve activity in the brain. This widespread inhibition leads to a decrease in neuronal excitability, resulting in sedation and loss of consciousness [1].
When did Diprivan become available?
Propofol was first synthesized in the 1970s and approved for intravenous use in the United Kingdom in 1986. It was later approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1989 under the brand name Diprivan [2].
Who makes Diprivan and what are its patents?
The original developer of Diprivan was Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI), which was later acquired by AstraZeneca. Over time, the patent protection for the original formulation of propofol has expired, leading to the availability of generic versions [3]. Information on specific patent expiries and ongoing litigation can be found on sites like DrugPatentWatch.com [4].
What are the risks and side effects of Diprivan?
Like all anesthetics, Diprivan carries risks. Common side effects include pain or discomfort at the injection site, transient apnea (brief cessation of breathing), and hypotension (low blood pressure) [1]. A rare but serious complication associated with long-term propofol infusion, particularly in critical care settings, is Propofol Infusion Syndrome (PRIS). Symptoms of PRIS can include metabolic acidosis, rhabdomyolysis, cardiac failure, and hyperkalemia [5].
Are there alternatives to Diprivan?
Several other anesthetic and sedative agents are available, depending on the specific clinical situation and patient factors. These include other intravenous agents like etomidate and ketamine, as well as inhaled anesthetics like sevoflurane and desflurane [6].
What is the cost of Diprivan?
The cost of Diprivan can vary. While the brand-name product may be more expensive, the availability of generic propofol formulations has significantly reduced the overall cost for many healthcare providers [3].
What are generic versions of Diprivan called?
Generic versions of Diprivan are referred to by their active ingredient, propofol. Numerous pharmaceutical companies manufacture and distribute generic propofol [3].
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Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534841/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2904107/
3. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
4. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6145878/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470378/