FDA authorizes propofol emulsion for emergency use for COVID-19 ventilator sedation

The Food and Drug Administration May 8 authorized the emergency use of Fresenius Propoven 2% Emulsion, which the agency says "may be effective to maintain sedation via continuous infusion in patients greater than 16 years old with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 who require mechanical ventilation in an ICU setting." The EUA was necessary because Fresenius Propoven 2% Emulsion has important differences in its formulation compared to FDA-approved propofol drugs; FDA therefore says that providers should consult the fact sheet for more information before the drug's administration.