Some intravenous anesthetics have been vigorously investigated as logical candidates for neuroprotectants. Generally, such anesthetics can suppress excitotoxicity and depolarization during ischemia and the early period of reperfusion, effects which contribute to the neuroprotective efficacy of these drugs. Neuronal death, however, is believed to be an ongoing process which continues for a long time after any initial ischemic injury has occurred. Recently, the neuroprotective efficacy of anesthetics has been called into doubt due to this process coupled with the complexity of postischemic events. In this chapter, the neuroprotective properties of intravenous anesthetics are reviewed, focusing on barbiturates, benzodiazepines, dexmedetomidine, and propofol.