Propofol emulsion for infusion and injection (all strengths) - Supply Disruption Update

14 April 2021

The NHS Central Alerting System has published an update to the supply distribution alert (SDA) for propofol that was originally issued on February 3rd 2021. This update brings the very welcome news that supplies of all strengths of propofol for infusion and injection are now much improved.

The increased supply, and the decrease in demand due to the reduced number of patients with COVID-19, mean that the restrictions to the use of propofol outlined in both the original SDA, and in our communication at the time, can now be lifted. The Association of Anaesthetists and the Royal College of Anaesthetists recommend that, as soon as supplies in their hospital reach sufficient levels, clinicians should return to their normal practice as regards the use of propofol. It is important to liaise with local pharmacy departments to know when this point has been reached.

ENDS