Is Ventolin Being Phased Out in the UK?

In this article, we’ll look at whether Ventolin, a popular reliever inhaler for asthma, is being phased out in the UK. We’ll discuss whether changes to Ventolin could affect how you use your inhaler and what any possible changes might mean for those who rely on it to manage asthma symptoms. We’ll also explain what to do if you’re concerned about your treatment options and whether it might be worth discussing any worries with your doctor.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about Ventolin being phased out in the UK:

• Ventolin is not being completely phased out in the UK, but the NHS is making changes to reduce carbon emissions.

• Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) like Ventolin Evohalers account for around 3% of the NHS’ carbon emissions.

• Ventolin Evohalers are likely to be replaced by dry powder inhalers (DPIs) or lower emission MDIs like Salamol.

• In 2021, NHS England postponed plans to reduce MDI prescriptions due to the COVID-19 vaccination programme.

• If you’re concerned about changes to your inhaler or treatment plan, it's important to speak with your doctor.

Is Ventolin being phased out in the UK?

No, Ventolin is not being ‘phased out’ in the UK, however, it does fall under the umbrella of changes being made by the NHS to help reduce their carbon emissions.

What are the reasons?

As mentioned, the NHS may try to phase out certain inhalers in the UK in an attempt to tackle their carbon emissions. Approximately 60 million inhalers are dispensed by the NHS every year and a lot of these are metered dose inhalers, known as MDIs, like Ventolin Evohalers. The NHS prescribes more MDIs than other European countries, however, the safety and effectiveness of the treatments prescribed by these countries is no worse than the UK.

Emissions from MDIs account for 3% of the NHS’ total carbon footprint. With other effective treatments available that are better for the planet, MDIs may be phased out by the NHS [1].

What will Ventolin be replaced with?

Ventolin Evohalers have not yet been phased out by the NHS. If the choice to remove Ventolin Evohalers from prescriptions is made by the NHS, there are a number of options that may be appropriate. Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) will likely replace MDIs as they have a much lower carbon footprint. Ventolin Evohalers would likely be replaced by DPIs for patients over the age of 12 years old when appropriate. Popular DPIs include:

• Ventolin Accuhaler

• Symbicort Turbohaler

• Pulmicort Turbohaler

• Seretide Accuhaler

• Relvar Ellipta

In 2022, the NHS announced that it was planning on changing Ventolin Evohaler prescriptions to alternative salbutamol inhalers such as Salamol due to their reduced climate impact [2].

Are there many differences between Ventolin and Salamol?

Both Ventolin and Salamol contain salbutamol and both are used to relieve asthma symptoms, they are just sold under different brand names. The main difference between Ventolin Evohalers and Salamol inhalers is their impact on the environment. A Ventolin Evohaler has more than twice the carbon footprint of a Salamol inhaler, making it a far more efficient choice for prescribers [2].

Have there been any delays?

Yes, there were initial delays in phasing out certain medications on the NHS. In 2021, NHS England postponed plans to help reduce the workload on GPs. Resources were then redirected to support COVID-19 booster vaccination programmes and the plans were deferred until 2022 [3].

In 2022, NHS England announced plans to phase out high-emission inhalers, including Ventolin Evohalers, to replace them with lower-emission alternatives like Salamol. 

Will I be able to use my inhaler in the same way?

If you get your inhalers from the NHS, you may notice that your doctor changes the brand of inhaler that you use. If you are given a new inhaler then it is important that you familiarise yourself with how to use it using the patient information leaflet before you begin using it. Your doctor will also provide you with instructions on how to use it.

If you want to continue using Ventolin Evohalers you are able to purchase them privately from UK Meds. You may choose to continue your treatment if they are particularly effective for you. At UK Meds, we have a number of different asthma inhalers that you can purchase.

To buy an inhaler from us, select the medication, strength and package size you require. You will then need to complete our online consultation. Once done, this will be reviewed by a registered prescriber who will decide whether or not to provide you with a free private prescription. If approved, your order will be processed and your order will be shipped to the delivery address provided.

Should I speak to my doctor if I'm concerned about my treatment changing?

Yes, if you're concerned about changes to your treatment, it’s a good idea to speak to your doctor. They can provide guidance on any potential changes to your treatment, explain the reasons behind these changes and help you understand how they may affect your health. If you're concerned about switching to a different inhaler or have questions about its effectiveness, your doctor can answer these and ensure that you continue to receive the best care for you.

Sources

[1] Greener NHS » Improving health outcomes for respiratory patients while reducing carbon emissions

[2] Changes to Salbutamol Inhalers - Aegis Medical Centre

[3] NHS England delays green inhaler targets to ease GP workload - The Pharmaceutical Journal