Pharmacokinetics and recovery characteristics of propofol in Greyhound
s and mixed-breed dogs were compared. In all dogs, disposition of prop
ofol was adequately described by a 2-compartment open model, with a ra
pid distribution phase followed by a slower elimination phase. When fi
ndings in Greyhounds were compared with those in mixed-breed dogs, sig
nificant differences were observed in mean concentrations of propofol
in blood, recovery characteristics, and estimates for apparent volume
of distribution, volume of distribution at steady state, and total bod
y clearance. In addition, Greyhounds recovered from anesthesia at high
er concentrations of propofol than did mixed-breed dogs. A secondary p
eak in blood propofol concentration was observed in 8 of 10 Greyhounds
and in 5 of 8 mixed-breed dogs. This peak corresponded to the time of
return of the righting reflex.