Salbutamol nebules in short supply: Notice
Date published: February 25, 2024
Date updated: February 13, 2026
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Background
Salbutamol is used to relieve symptoms and prevent bronchospasms caused by asthma, bronchitis and other chronic bronchopulmonary disorders.
In Canada, salbutamol is marketed by several companies in nebules, metered-dose inhalers, respiratory solutions and injectable formats.
Although individual shortages may be reported, supplies of salbutamol metered-dose inhalers, respiratory solutions and injectable formats are generally adequate to meet demand.
Some supply constraints have been reported for the nebules, which are marketed by Pharmascience Inc. and Teva Canada Ltd. Pharmascience is still reporting a shortage of the 1 mg strength due to a manufacturing disruption. Teva has resolved its shortage, but would be unable to supply the increased demand resulting from the Pharmascience shortage. Supply constraints are expected to persist until spring 2026.
What we're doing
We recognize the importance of salbutamol nebules for patients. Addressing this shortage is a top priority.
We're communicating with health care providers, provincial and territorial governments, and distributors to coordinate the sharing of information about this shortage.
You can access resources to help manage this shortage:
We're working with manufacturers and stakeholders to monitor the supply of salbutamol nebules. We're also looking at how these products can be made more available.
What you can do
If you have any questions on the availability of salbutamol nebules or metered-dose inhalers, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to offer other options if your medicine is not available.
You should always:
- use a licensed pharmacy to get your medication
- only buy products that are authorized for sale in Canada
- avoid buying products from unlicensed and unverified online sellers, as these products may:
- not contain the active ingredient
- contain other undeclared and hazardous ingredients that could cause serious risks to health
- not meet manufacturing quality and safety standards and have unknown contaminants
All drugs approved for sale in Canada have an 8-digit drug identification number (DIN). The DIN assures you that Health Canada has assessed a drug and considers it safe and effective when used as directed on the label. The DIN also provides a way to track adverse drug reactions.
Report any health product-related side effects or complaints to Health Canada.
Learn more about drug shortages in Canada and how Canadians can deal with drug shortages.