Ventolin nebules shortage: ‘Out of stock’: Australian chemists battle severe shortage of medicine used to treat RSV, asthma
Australia is facing a severe, long-term shortage of Ventolin nebules, a critical medication for asthma and respiratory illnesses like RSV. Health authorities warn that supply issues may persist until 2028, forcing patients to struggle to find available stock.
Why it matters
The shortage highlights vulnerabilities in the global pharmaceutical supply chain and the immediate health risks posed to vulnerable populations during peak respiratory virus seasons.
shares Share article Exclusive: Australians battling asthma , bronchitis or a respiratory illness are struggling to get their hands on a popular prescription medication , with a global supply crunch predicted to last for years.
Ventolin nebules, also known as salbutamol sulfate, is used to treat acute breathing difficulties and is severe short supply due to an “unexpected increase in demand”, according to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) .
One Sydney mother was turned away from five pharmacies while trying to find ventolin nebules. Getty
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The shortage is expected to last until at least 2028.
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