Additive Effects of Sevoflurane and Propofol on γ-Aminobutyric Acid Receptor Function

Abstract

Response surface modeling of the potentiation of GABA responses (0.3-1,000 microm) by sevoflurane and propofol revealed that the two anesthetics modulated receptor function in an additive manner. These results are consistent with recent mutagenesis studies, suggesting that these two drugs have separate binding sites and converging pathways of action on the GABAA receptor.