Propofol, in emulsion formulation, was compared with methohexitone for short duration anaesthesia with the main emphasis on acute and long-term venous tolerance. Flunitrazepam and fentanyl were given to all the patients. Fifty-two female patients undergoing short gynaecological procedures were randomly allocated to two groups to receive propofol or methohexitone as the intravenous anaesthetic agent. The dose of propofol was 2.0 mg/kg at induction with an average total dose of 2.58 mg/kg and the dose of methohexitone was 1.5 mg/kg and 2.20 mg/kg, respectively. Propofol or methohexitone were given through a 1.0 mm Teflon indwelling cannula in a superficial vein of one hand. All other drugs were given through a similar cannula in the other hand. There were no significant differences in acute or late tolerance between the propofol and methohexitone or control (all other drugs) groups. Because there was no thrombophlebitis following either drug the venous tolerance of both drugs can be regarded as good. Moreover this type of short anaesthesia was characterized with fast recovery and high patient acceptance.