Propofol (10 mg per ml) 50 ml and 100 ml vials: Supply issue
Fresenius Kabi, the supplier, has been experiencing manufacturing delays, affecting the supply of propofol 50 ml (Pharmacode: 2444011) and 100 ml (Pharmacode: 2444038) vials.
23 April 2025 Update
An urgent air freight is expected to arrive in Aotearoa New Zealand by the end of April. It may take another 1 to 2 weeks before stock reaches pharmacies around the motu.
Affected products
Since April 2025, Fresenius Kabi has been managing the stock of the following products to ensure a fair distribution to wholesalers and hospitals. We are advised that stock levels are now critically low and there may not be enough to meet current demand. Despite future planned deliveries, some surgeries across New Zealand may be impacted because of this supply issue.
Propofol
Presentation: Inj 10 mg per ml, 50 ml vial
- Brand: Fresofol 1% MCT/LCT
- Pharmacode: 2444011
- Price: $19.50
- Measure / Qty: per 10
Presentation: Inj 10 mg per ml, 100 ml vial
- Brand: Fresofol 1% MCT/LCT
- Pharmacode: 2444038
- Price: $39.00
- Measure / Qty: per 10
HML listing for propofol(external link)
Alternative product
Pharmac is working to source an alternative.
Expected resupply
Fresenius Kabi has arranged for air freight for some stock for Australia. It is expected to arrive by the end of April. It may take another 1 to 2 weeks to reach pharmacies around the motu.
Further shipments are also expected in May 2025.
Who to contact
If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz
Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, Pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.
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