propofol

Propofol (Diprivan) is a sedative medication that puts you in a deep sleep. It can also be used as a general anesthetic so you don't feel pain. This medication is used for people undergoing surgery and for people in the intensive care unit (ICU) who are on a ventilator.

Diprivan, which is also available as a generic, is the only FDA-approved form of propofol. However, in response to the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), the FDA issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) in 2021 for the use of an unapproved brand of propofol called Propofol-Lipuro 1%. This EUA was issued, because there isn't enough supply of Diprivan and its generic form in the United States. So, the EUA allows hospitals to get and use Propofol-Lipuro 1%. It's important to note that while this brand isn't approved by the FDA, Propofol-Lipuro 1% is approved in countries outside of the United States.

Propofol (Diprivan) is a sedative and anesthetic medication. It's not exactly clear how it works, but it's thought to bind (attach) to a specific protein in your brain called the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor. This causes the release of the chemical GABA in your brain, which causes you to fall asleep (sedation) and lower your ability to feel pain (anesthesia).

Propofol (Diprivan) is given as an injection through the veins (intravenous, IV). This is done by a trained healthcare provider who will make sure you get the medication at the correct dose and time. The dose of propofol (Diprivan) varies widely, because it depends on your weight and why you need to receive this medication.