Intravenous anesthetics are commonly used in modern anesthesia for induction and maintenance of general anesthesia and for sedation in various clinical settings (e.g., ICU, short procedures, pediatrics). This thesis gives an overview of the mechanism of general anesthesia and the frequently used intravenous anesthetics, including propofol, fospropofol, ketamine, midazolam, barbiturates (thiopental and methohexital), etomidate, dexmedetomidine, and opioid agents. The basic chemical structures, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of these agents are summarized. In addition, clinical uses and common doses of these agents are also included, which is useful in clinical practice and decision-making.