Medical doctors, and especially anesthesiologists, are frequently opposed to lethal injection as an execution method because, among other things, no assurances can be given that the barbiturates will not wear off before death occurs, causing the condemned inmate to wake up and slowly suffocate to death.

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Many medical professionals, including anesthesiologists, have publicly spoken out against lethal injection as an execution method due to concerns over its effectiveness and potential for causing unnecessary pain and suffering. One of the main concerns is the possibility that the barbiturates used to induce unconsciousness may wear off before death occurs, leaving the inmate awake and aware of their surroundings while being paralyzed and unable to move or communicate. This can lead to a slow and agonizing death by suffocation, which is considered by many to be cruel and inhumane. As a result, many medical professionals have refused to participate in executions or provide drugs for use in lethal injections, citing ethical and moral objections to the practice.

Medical Doctors, and Especially Anesthesiologists, Are Frequently Opposed to Lethal