Salbutamol inhaler (Respigen): Supply issue
The supplier of salbutamol Respigen is experiencing supply issues. Other salbutamol inhalers are also experiencing some constraint in supply.
1 September 2023 update
Some Respigen stock has been released to wholesalers in the week ending 1 September 2023.
We continue to monitor the stock situation.
Affected product
- Chemical: Salbutamol
- Presentation: Aerosol inhaler, 100 mcg per dose CFC free
- Brand: Respigen
- Pharmacode: 2272911
Schedule listing for salbutamol inhalers(external link)
Availability of products
Supplies of Respigen are making their way through the supply chain. Supply is likely to remain constrained through August.
Supplies of Ventolin were affected by the Respigen supply issue. Supplies are available.
Supplies of Salair were affected by the Respigen supply issue. Supplies are available.
Expected resupply
Some stock was released to the market in early August. Viatris is managing the allocation of stock of Respigen.
The next shipment is due at the end of August.
Alternative product
Ventolin and Salair are listed in the Schedule and are the same strength. They may be on allocation to manage supplies until the Respigen supply issue is resolved.
Please note that Ventolin is only partially subsidised.
Who to contact
If you have questions about this issue, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz
If you have concerns regarding the supply of SalAir, contact Rex Medical: 0800 739 633
Please include as much information as you can about the product (presentation, brand, pharmacode) and who your wholesaler is.
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