The screening of propofol in MHS swine

This study investigated the use of propofol in swine genetically susceptible to malignant hyperthermia (MH). Thirteen animals were exposed to 2% halothane in inspired air, a propofol infusion of 12 mg.kg-1.hr-1 for up to 45 min, or a combination of both. When MH was triggered the animals were treated with dantrolene. Mean onset time of malignant hyperthermia on exposure to halothane alone was 7.2 min +/- 3.0 min and onset with propofol and halothane was 5.0 +/- 2.5 min. In no instance did propofol alone trigger the syndrome nor was there a statistical difference (P less than 0.05) in onset time when the drug was used in conjunction with halothane. On the basis of these results, we conclude that propofol is almost certainly safe for use in humans who are susceptible to MH.