Pharmacokinetics of propofol in young children after a single dose.

The pharmacokinetics of propofol were studied following a single bolus injection (2.5 mg kg-1) in 10 healthy children (4-7 yr). Propofol was distributed rapidly and extensively (Vss 10.9 (1.2) litre kg-1) and cleared rapidly from the body (Cl 30.6 (2.9) ml min-1 kg-1). With the exception of a larger central compartment volume (V alpha 722 (113) ml kg-1), these data are similar to those reported for young adults who received an identical dose and who underwent sampling over the same period. The larger value of V alpha is consistent with the higher induction dose requirement reported for children.