Korean J Anesthesiol.  2015 Dec;68(6):586-593. 10.4097/kjae.2015.68.6.586.

Clinical and psychological characteristics of propofol abusers in Korea: a survey of propofol abuse in 38, non-healthcare professionals

• Kim EJ
• Kim SH
• Hyun YJ
• Noh YK
• Jung HS
• Han SY
• Park CH
• Choi BM
• Noh GJ

• KMID: 2237310
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.2015.68.6.586

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The aim of this study is to investigate the characteristics of propofol abuse based on the results of a survey analysis of abusers among non-healthcare professionals in Korea.
METHODS
Thirty-eight propofol abusers were questioned between October and December 2010, and were enrolled and voluntarily participated in a structured survey consisting of an interview and completing a previously prepared questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into three distinct parts: part 1 dealt with the history of propofol abuse; part 2 highlighted the problems caused by propofol abuse; and part 3 enquired regarding demographics of abusers.
RESULTS
Thirty-one (81.6%) of the 38 interviewees abused propofol for more than one year. During the last 12 months, 34 (89.0%) received propofol at two or three times a week. The minimum and maximum amounts of propofol (median, range) administered each time were 500 (100, 1000) and 2000 (500, 4000) mg, respectively. Stress relief and the maintenance of a sense of well-being were quoted the most important reasons for the first-time administration of propofol and its subsequent abuse, respectively. The majority of abusers (36.0, 97.3%) reported a sense of pleasure or euphoria at the time of their propofol injection. Withdrawal symptoms occurred in five abusers (13.2%). Thirteen (36.1%) reported disruptions in their work life. None of the respondents had previously admitted to and or reported abuse of any other controlled substances.
CONCLUSIONS
These results provided reference data for the regulation of propofol in Korea as a controlled substance and may also be of interest to international agencies in other countries.

Keyword

Abuse; General population; Propofol

MeSH Terms

Controlled Substances
Surveys and Questionnaires
Demography
Euphoria
International Agencies
Korea*
Pleasure
Propofol*
Substance Withdrawal Syndrome
Controlled Substances
Propofol