is there a big difference between these two medications? going for the colonoscopy and was wondering if i had a choice which should i ask for. i have had versed before during some cortisone injections in my back and never had problems. im afraid if they only offer propofol as a choice i might not wake up like MJ did. i know he abused it but still. opinions are appreciated from you all... john
Propofol vs versed?
Question posted by johnw489 on 9 July 2013
Last updated on 20 November 2023
13 Answers
CrashCart9
26 April 2017
Something else you may want to consider is the cost. Propofol anesthesia frequently requires substantial additional monitoring by an anesthesiologist or anesthesiology nurse. Versed + fentanyl can usually be managed by just the GI team. Your facility's procedures may vary, of course, however based on my experience as a patient when scheduling mine, they were clear that if I needed/wanted Propofol, it would have to be done in the main hospital building's outpatient surgery center for the anesthesiology capabilities instead of the GI office. The facility charge and the charge for the extra provider may make your final bill quite different.
Boston-blonde
15 April 2017
Propofol if you don't want to be awake or remember. You'll wake up very easily and no grogginess. Versed/fentynal are not drugs used in anesthesia. (Propofol is giving in surgery when general anesthesia is used. It is what is given before intubation). It is also used in many outpatient (injections and minor procedures). It is by far the easiest on a person. Heavily monitored by the anesthesiologist and short acting so no hangover. Versed and Fentynal does cause many people to relax and some not to recall. However, many people it does not have amnesia qualities on. If you have not been given both sets of meds in different procedures be prepared that the versed combo may not "put you out". Propofol will.
victore1
26 Feb 2017
propofol does not give you rem sleep it seems as if it does but it does not so your body starts showing signs of being very tired and confused. I have used versed I would use.versed anytime if i had to chose
SnarkyJ
29 Jan 2017
I have had both and I vastly prefer Propofol. I suffer from Acalasia and need to have an endoscopy fairly regularly and I have always had a better experience with the propofol. They inject you with it, ask you a few questions and before you can answer one or two you are waking up in the recovery room. For me it's a miracle drug. I did have a bad experience once with Versed so I always ask the doctor for a benzo to take the morning of the procedure so I am not as anxious going to the office. I know you posted this a long time ago, but maybe this answer will help someone else.
kkelly1717
5 April 2017
SnarkyJ,
Do you mind telling me privately if you want what your bad experience with Versed was? I feel like I'm the only person ever to have problems with Versed. I wasn't anxious about the procedure. In fact I felt kind of cleansed with that colon spa! I certainly didn't go to work the morning of ... I made them take me first thing because I will get migraines if I don't eat early in the morning.
Also, I will look up Acalasia. What is that?
Thanks! Kathy
jychauncey
22 Nov 2016
I had a colonoscopy without any medications at all I was completely awake and watched it on the screen and I didn't feel a thing it was very interesting to watch too I'm glad I did it this way. The doctor said I have the cleanest and most beautiful colon he had ever seen and I am 54.
carol22b
22 Dec 2017
Glad yours was so much fun. Mine aren't. First 2 were done while awake, with IV valium(which gave me phlebitiis @ infusion site) while I was on a stainless steel table in a room with a drain in the floor. "Move your right knee closer to your shoulder," was one of the instructions I got, while vomiting from pain during & after the procedures.
Third time was with Versed. When I awakened in a small recovery room, I was told they couldn't do my procedure past the first couple of turns & I'd have to go to a surgeon.
Next 3 were with a great surgeon under GA. He said I have "the worst colon" he'd "ever seen" due to many curly, tight, turns. After he retired, I had 1 more, with a gastroenterologist & proponol.
Colonoscopies are not such nice, interesting experiences for all of us & you do a huge disservice by minimizing the possibility of other discomfort people's discomfort. Glad you can brag about your pretty colon. Makes you a special snowflake, doesn't it?
booltr2
7 June 2015
I realize that this is long in the past now, but here are a few things to note. And, perhaps it may help when considering procedures that may come up in the future. I, like most other people had never even heard of, or knew that propofol existed. After a lot of research, I came to many conclusions based on medical facts which currently are part of accepted medical practice. BTW, MJ just wanted to get some much needed sleep/rest. The accepted medical use for propofol is never indicated for insomnia and secondly, all of the safeguards and protocols put in place when this drug is used and administrated, would NEVER allow for the same outcomes to occur, like they did with MJ. The use of propofol is done only in a hospital setting or OR, where the patient is having a procedure done whereas this medication is indicated. It's administered only by an anesthesiologist.
Referring to something that I did not know prior, this medication has a very short half-life, meaning that essentially it doesn't last long and it's affects are closely monitored. The drug usually gets administrated more than once to maintain the patient being asleep for however long the procedure is to last. If you look into the dosage guide for the doctor, there is a complex set of calculations that are used in how to figure the initial dose and what is needed just to maintain the patient being asleep for however long the procedure takes. In short, a patient is not given more than they need, but just what they require so that it lasts for the time that the procedure takes to complete. Lastly I was amazed and am happy to report that this drug is really the preferred one to use for putting people to sleep for various surgical and non-surgical procedures, simply for the reason that there are very few side affects, if in-fact almost none to worry about for the majority of patients coming into the OR.
Rita 27
19 May 2015
John, here's a novel thought and you won't have to worry about any drug interactions. Have the colonoscopy done without any drugs given. I did. It is really no big deal. There was only one painful moment and that was when they turned the first corner of the colon and the discomfort didn't last long. The procedure was not painful and the doctor even cut off a polyp which was painless. And you can watch the whole procedure when you're getting it done. It was very interesting.
booltr2
7 June 2015
Are you NUTS? CRAZY? If there is an opportunity to take a medication that can/will allow me to either be asleep for the procedure or be "out of it" so much, that I would be in the state of mind w/the attitude of "I don't care", Then I'm ALL FOR IT! LOL In retrospect, when considering the "nature" of a colonoscopy and "where" the scope is "going", perhaps most people would opt to just "leave it up to professionals" to know what they're doing. I have heard about some people actually wanting to NOT put on any type of medication that would either relax them or let them be totally asleep. Further, that patient would be able to even "watch" the doctor use the scope to go up their "xyz". All kidding aside, yes you can watch the procedure on a monitor and while it's happening.
This would be a great opportunity to be a part of your own "care", but if I was asked and even if I was interested in seeing my colonoscopy take place, I know that I'm not qualified to review this procedure when it comes down to knowing what is being looked for, not to mention I wouldn't even have any idea (after the doctors enters my colon), of where we are at, along the route. For me, that would/could increase my anxiety about if something was found; if it's good/bad, to what extent; how much longer, ect. I can't believe that with todays technology and such, that if I wanted to see this procedure that was done on me and for the doctor's sake/hospital/legal department, ect--- I would assume that it was recorded and I could obtain a copy on a dvd. Just like today's back x-rays, instead of hand carrying over films to my surgeon to look at, upon leaving the x-ray department after getting some pictures taken, I was handed a dvd to give to my doctor for review. So it's no stretch to think that I couldn't get a copy of my colonoscopy. And if I really wanted to know/see it (and to be sure), I would request/ask ahead of time if it's recorded and that I would like a copy.
Rita 27
26 Feb 2017
Excuse me, but I am NOT nuts and I think I can offer up an opinion since I did the procedure with NO drugs period. The man is afraid of getting some drugs or being put to sleep and I can relate to that. Versed is too strong and not necessary for a colonoscopy and has been known to affect one's memory. Propofyl is a light drug to put you in a twilight sleep. Best to talk to your doctor and anesthesiologist or just get a mild pain relaxer for when the round the first corner. The procedure does not hurt except when they round the first corner of the colon.
kkelly1717
5 April 2017
John, Yes, read my other thread. Yes I see this is 4 years later. I wonder how your procedure went? I am glad if someone can do the colonoscopy without drugs but personally I think that's nuts too when you can ensure the safety and comfort. However, in my case... that didn't even happen with VERSED; Demerol and Fentanyl. I was a little sleepy but felt pain! I could tell you a play by play and it was jabbing and jamming over and over and over. I screamed out my doctor's name to stop because it was hurting me. I actually screamed out his name Dr. Webb stop it's hurting me so badly! ! Stop! Unfortunately he continued the procedure. I am finding it very difficult to forgive him for putting me through such undue discomfort and pain. I am also scarred mentally and possibly physically. I have pain still in my upper right quadrant that was caused by his jabbing so hard with the colonoscope. Had he put me under, he wouldn't have had such a resistant patient and involuntary moving colon!
Kathy
verseddy
20 Nov 2023
Sorry, this is UN-advisable if this is a First colonoscopy. You can have a "tortuous" colon and not know it.
"Tortuous colon" sufferers have multiple twists and turns making it difficult for the doctor to get a complete exam. I know, because I have one.
I don't know how common it is, but I wouldn't want to be awake when the doctor encounters this.
4N Substances
11 July 2013
Ver-sed Ver-sed Ver-sed That's always my choice John. I never want to be "put under" if it's not necessary. How many more days do we have before your procedure? I'm marking them off with a big X each day on my calendar... :))
pickles503
11 July 2013
Hi John.
As far as your concern about Michael Jackson, Propofol wasn't the only med he had in his system. He also had Nordiazepam, Diazepam, Lidocaine, Midazolam, and Lorazepam in his body. Before he died, the doc ordered 40 more viles of 100 mg. propofol. Propofol is good for a colonoscopy because it puts you out fast and you come to really fast. It's effective for hard to sedate people. Plus it allows the doc to focus on the colonoscopy and not worry about the anesthesia.
Most docs use conscious sedation. Usually, it takes two different meds. The two medications normally given are 1)a narcotic analgesic(painkiller)-usually Demerol(meperidine) or Sublimaze(fentanyl) 2)a benzodiazepine(sedative/hypnotic)-usually Versed(midazolam) or Valium(diazepam).
I believe you should have a choice of the meds used. I think I'd find out before I have the procedure, which meds they plan to use.
Make sure to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your physician before the colonoscopy.
I wish you the very best, John.
Anna
johnw489
12 July 2013
anna, dunno if i thanked you for your response about the medication. it certainly helped me relax a bit about the safety of the meds. john
Bowskiter
10 July 2013
I'm not familiar with versed and sad to say I've never asked what they gave me before colonoscopy but you will hear what's going on but your a little loopy for at least 15 minutes after But relax you're going to fine. The worst is the day before and when someone tell youcant eat after 3 that's when McDonald's Burger King,K.F.C Everything look delicious. Good luck its a breeze and if something is wrong they'll see.
Inactive
10 July 2013
johnw, me again, been there, done that, Versed for sure!!!
kathyhanson
9 July 2013
Hey, John,
Versed is a strong sedative, while propofol is an anesthesia. With versed you will be dopey for quite awhile after the colonoscopy. Propofol leaves your system quickly, so you won't feel drunk unless you are given a sedative along with the propofol. Ask your doc if you can talk to the anesthesia folks to find out what they prefer to use. If you tell them that you have been given versed before and had no problems, and that you are a little fearful of propofol, they would probably give you Versed. Don't forget that YOU are in charge of what goes into your body as long as your choice will not have harmful effects on you. Anesthesia folks are fairly accommodating - well, some of them are. Just talk to your doc. Don't worry, darlin, you'll be fine.
Kathy
Rita 27
29 Jan 2017
John, Michael Jackson abused Propofol so don't judge by him. Versed is a forgetter drug and I don't recommend that as it could affect your memory and probably has. Propofol is egg based and leaves the system quickly.
I did my first colonoscopy without any drugs and it was fine during the procedure. The colon is not a pain source. I watched the procedure and it was interesting. There was only one part that gave me some cramping and that was when they rounded the first corner of the colon with the scope and that only lasted less than a minute and you may not have that at all. The procedure other than that is not at all painful. They put air in the colon and afterwards you need to lie still so the air can come out like gas.
Best to talk to the doctor and anesthesiologist though. You can do it without anything as I said or even maybe a very small dose that won't put you to sleep. I totally understand your fears as I am the same way. Good luck to you!
kkelly1717
5 April 2017
Hello you all,
I just had a colonoscopy FROM HELL. I was given Versed; Demerol and Fentanyl. I was not nervous about the procedure because I had had one years ago; however it did require the doctor to administer more than the "normal" quickie 20 minute colonoscopy regimen that seems to be the norm nowadays. EVEN though I pointed this information out to my doctor at our office visit, it must not have crossed his mind that he would have any issues with me. Other than migraines, I have pretty good health. I did feel the sleepyish part and then I woke up in excruciating pain of the colonoscope jabbing and jamming my colon in the inside. I also now have soreness in my right abdomen. It was one of the most horrible experiences I have ever had. I am grateful it is not the norm or MOST folks would not go do this wonderful preventive measure for cancer. Dr. Whitney Lawrence Webb is the Gastroenterologist who was in charge in the room during my colonoscopy.
He never came to talk to me personally afterward. Of course he knew I was lucid and pissed off. I was crying and extremely upset. I immediately reported what had happened to the discharge nurse but she gave me only words of sympathy. She did not even report it to her supervisor. I filed a formal complaint later when I read in my physician's notes these exact words: "Patient seemed to tolerate sedation well." I won't be having any procedures without anesthesia. DR WHITNEY LAWRENCE WEBB won't be present for any of my procedures. I will have a lengthy chat with the anesthesia team if need be. My advice to any of you out there is to have a conversation with your doctor. Even though I did, this terrible mishap did occur and incompetence is unacceptable.
Kathy
bruthd
9 July 2013
John, I don't know which to recommend to you although I am familiar with both. You need to ask your MD. I've had a colonoscopy and the worst part was the prep. The procedure was a piece of cake. I think you are just anxious about the procedure, and, remember, that when we are in constant pain we become anxious about everything. Ask your gastroenterologist, he/she will alleviate your concern. It's such a brief procedure and such a small amount of anesthesia is used. You'll be fine. They may use another anesthesia than either of the two you mention as there are lots of safe ones. Put good soothing thoughts in your mind prior to having it done and it will be over quickly. My thoughts and prayers are with you. BRuthD
johnw489
10 July 2013
thank you ruth. if i were going to a private facility i might be more at ease. unfortunately i must use a county hospital that offers a health care program that you must use their doctors and clinics they operate. the clinics are staffed with awful people for the most part all seemingly fresh out of the "quicky mart" nurses?? the one thats my primary care physician is her assistant and she allows him to conduct the exam for the most part. he decides what you need and leaves the room only to come back and regurgitate her orders of meds or further treatment. she does come in some times to check on you or introduce a card for their patient care relations department thats a survey of your visit. she waits there whilst you fill it out. lol
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versed, propofol, colonoscopy, medication, cortisone injection
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