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Propofol is a sedative-hypnotic drug that is now widely prescribed for general anaesthesia, long-term sedation, and conscious sedation. Among its main advantages, propofol is a short-acting drug, with predictable pharmacokinetics, and is particularly safe when used appropriately in the hospital setting. Since the fatal story of Michael Jackson, numerous cases of human propofol abuse or dependency have been published in the literature. Medical professionals are particularly exposed, but propofol abuse is now increasingly reported in the general population. Death may be accidental after recreational use or may be due to a suicidal overdose. The abuse potential of propofol is supported by experimental data and clinical observations. A better regulation of its delivery should be considered in at risk populations and the possibility of misuse of the general population should be minimized.