The use of di-isopropyl phenol (Diprivan) for induction of anaesthesia was assessed in doses ranging from 1 to 3 mg kg−1. With less than 1.75 mg kg−1 not all patients were anaesthetized; 2.0 mg kg−1 appeared to be a satisfactory induction dose. Involuntary muscle movement, cough and hiccup at induction were rare with any dose studied. However, the frequency of hypotension and respiratory depression were related to the dose given. Pain on injection was uncommon when the drug was given into an antecubital vein, but occurred in 39% of patients when injected to the back of the hand or wrist. Recovery was rapid, and characterized by lack of emetic sequelac. Di-isopropyl phenol 1.5–2.0 mg kg−1 given rapidly during reactive hyperaemia can produce anaesthesia in one arm—brain circulation time. A reaction involving flush, hypotension, cough, laryngospasm and bronchospasm occurred in one patient receiving 2.5 mg kg−1 given over 20 s.