1800 278 462
Accessing Salbutamol without prescription
The use of asthma medication due to the current bushfire crisis and the longevity of poor air quality, which may trigger asthma, has put Salbutamol inhalers (puffers) in high demand. Despite the media attention on low or nil stock, even with the increase in demand, there continues to be adequate stock available in Australia. Therefore, it is not necessary to stockpile or over-order your inhalers.
Salbutamol also known as Ventolin, Asmol, and Airomir, which are commonly used for asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory diseases are important reliever medicines. These medicines are available over the counter without the need for a prescription from your GP. However, if this is the first time using these medications and you are experiencing asthma like symptoms start asthma first aid and seek urgent medical advice. In an emergency call triple zero (000).
According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) who has been in close contact with distributors o, they all reported they had sufficient supply. Distributors will continue to receive regular supplies and arrangements such as expedited delivery have been implemented. In the case where routine supply has been impaired due to road closure and transport issues because of the bushfires, emergency services will work to support availability of these reliever medicines, allowing you to access them via evacuation centres and pharmacies.
Furthermore, for other medications that usually require a prescription- if you have lost your medication or prescription, the TGA has granted permission for pharmacies to supply medication to people with asthma or COPD, without a prescription. Therefore, if you are in need, speak to your pharmacist about emergency supply.
If you want to learn how you can manage your asthma, you can contact an Asthma Educator at Asthma Australia to discuss an Asthma Management Plan.