Ciprofol: A Comprehensive Review of Its Pharmacological Profile, Clinical Efficacy, and Future Directions in Anesthetic Practice
Muhammad Faraaz Ismail
Abstract
Background: Intravenous anesthetic agents are essential for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia, acting on the central nervous system (CNS) to induce unconsciousness, immobility, and amnesia. Propofol is widely used due to its rapid onset, short duration of action, and smooth recovery profile. However, its use can be associated with adverse effects, including injection site pain, dose-dependent hypotension, and respiratory depression. The need to address these limitations has driven the development of ciprofol (HSK3486), a novel intravenous anesthetic agent designed to retain propofol’s efficacy while improving its safety profile. Objectives: This review evaluates the pharmacological profile, clinical efficacy, safety, and tolerability of ciprofol and its potential advantages over propofol. It also highlights knowledge gaps and future research directions. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed studies, clinical trials, and systematic reviews was performed to assess ciprofol’s pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and clinical performance in surgical and diagnostic settings. Results: Ciprofol exerts its anesthetic effects by modulating GABA_A receptors, enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission. Structural modifications, including the incorporation of a cyclopropyl group, increase its receptor binding affinity, contributing to reduced injection pain and improved hemodynamic stability. Clinical studies indicate that ciprofol provides effective sedation and anesthesia at lower doses, with fewer incidences of hypotension, bradycardia, and respiratory depression compared to propofol. It demonstrated consistent efficacy in elderly patients and those with hepatic or renal impairments, with minimal need for dose adjustments. Conclusion: Ciprofol represents a significant advancement in intravenous anesthetic agents, offering enhanced patient safety and comfort. Its reduced side effect profile and favorable pharmacokinetics support its use as an alternative to propofol, particularly in high-risk and critically ill patients. However, further research is needed to address long-term safety, evaluate its role in intensive care unit sedation, and explore potential neuroprotective effects.
Keywords
ciprofol; intravenous anesthetic; propofol alternative; sedation and anesthesia; adverse effects.
Cite This Article
Ismail, M. F. (2025). Ciprofol: A Comprehensive Review of Its Pharmacological Profile, Clinical Efficacy, and Future Directions in Anesthetic Practice. International Journal of Scientific Advances (IJSCIA), Volume 6| Issue 1: Jan-Feb 2025, Pages 71-76, URL: https://www.ijscia.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Volume6-Issue1-Jan-Feb-No.824-71-76.pdf
Volume 6 | Issue 1: Jan – Feb 2025
