Self-administration of propofol is mediated by dopamine D1 receptors in nucleus accumbens in rats

► We studied the role of dopamine receptors in the addictive property of propofol. ► Systemic D1 (not D2) receptor blockade attenuated propofol self-administration. ► Systemic D1 receptor blockade did not affect food-maintained responding. ► Blockade of accumbenal D1 receptors attenuated propofol self-administration. ► D1 receptors in nuclear accumbens are critical to propofol self-administration.