Intravenous induction agents work by rapidly inducing unconsciousness when administered intravenously. Some of the earliest agents used were barbiturates like hexobarbital and thiopental. Propofol, introduced in 1986, is now one of the most commonly used induction agents due to its rapid onset and offset of action. Ideal induction agents have rapid onset within one circulation of the arm to the brain, rapid redistribution out of the brain to allow for quick wake up, and few side effects. Propofol's mechanism of action involves enhancing GABA inhibition and it is known for its short context-sensitive half-time, but must be used carefully to avoid side effects like hypotension.