What Is the 'Needle Phobia' Behind Yoo Ah-in's Sleep Anesthesia?

Propofol and Ketamine Administration for Medical Purposes?
Yoo Ah-in's Side: "Needle Phobia Led to Sedation"

The actor Yoo Ah-in, suspected of habitual propofol use, explained that he suffers from 'needle phobia' and requested sedation at the hospital. This is interpreted as meaning that the administration of propofol and other sedatives was for medical purposes.

According to an MBC report on the 2nd, a staff member at a dermatology clinic in Seocho-gu, Seoul, where Yoo visited around 2021, stated, "Propofol is prescribed for sedation when performing painful procedures." However, they did not disclose the specific procedures Yoo underwent.

In response, a representative from Yoo's side explained, "Yoo, who has suffered from a skin condition, has 'needle phobia' and requested sedation." They also explained that ketamine detected in Yoo's hair was likely for medical purposes as well.

Actor Yoo Ah-in [Photo by Yonhap News]

Earlier, the police collected Yoo's urine and hair samples and requested analysis from the National Forensic Service (NFS), which detected four types of narcotic substances: propofol, marijuana, cocaine, and ketamine.

The needle phobia claimed by Yoo's side refers to an extreme fear of injections. It goes beyond just being afraid or anxious about injections; it can cause fainting, lowered blood pressure, or loss of consciousness in severe cases. It is also reported that the fear extends to acupuncture needles used in traditional Korean medicine clinics.

However, Yoo has not commented on the detection of other narcotics such as marijuana or cocaine. Also, the explanation that propofol and ketamine were administered solely due to needle phobia is insufficient.

Investigations revealed that Yoo received propofol more than 100 times in total during 2021 and last year, with 73 times and over 4400 ml administered in 2021 alone. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recommends that propofol administration for procedures should not exceed once per month.

According to the MBC report, the hospital director who treated Yoo reportedly warned him, "You should not receive sedation too frequently," and "You should not switch hospitals," discouraging frequent administration.