Risk of Propofol shortage could disrupt major surgeries: Doctors Warn

 

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There is a growing risk of a shortage of propofol infusion/injection, a key drug used for anesthesia in surgical procedures, Medical and Civil Rights Doctors' Trade Union Alliance Chairman Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa said.

He said propofol, which is widely used for patients undergoing major surgeries in hospitals across the country, is currently in limited supply at several hospitals and medical supply units.

 He warned that unless urgent steps are taken to replenish stocks, the shortage could seriously affect the continuation of major surgical procedures in the near future.

Although alternative anesthetic drugs are available, Dr. Sanjeewa claimed that propofol is the preferred choice among anesthesiologists due to its effectiveness and predictable response in patients. He added that substitute drugs do not provide the same level of reliability or clinical response as propofol, making them less suitable for many procedures.

Therefore, Medical professionals have urged the government to address the issue without delay and ensure the timely supply of propofol to hospitals to avoid disruptions to essential surgical services.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Government Pharmacists Association, Ajith Thilakaratne, has also recently warned that Sri Lanka could face a severe shortage of medicines in the future, highlighting the need for immediate and long-term measures to strengthen the country’s drug supply system.