Supply issue: Duolin Nebuliser soln, salbutamol 2.5 mg with ipratropium bromide 0.5 mg per vial, 2.5 ml ampoule

Kia ora.

We are writing to inform you that Duolin nebules are in short supply.  Rex the supplier has sourced an alternative product, which will be listed (funded) from 1 February 2026.

Alternative product

This is not a Medsafe approved product and will need to be prescribed and dispensed in line with Section 29 of the Medicines Act (therefore not available on PSO.) 

• This medicine contains albuterol sulfate instead of salbutamol sulphate. Albuterol is the USA official generic name for salbutamol.

• The alternative product is Albuterol sulfate 3 mg with ipratropium bromide 0.5 mg/ 3ml ampoule, brand name Cipla S29.

• Note - albuterol sulfate 3mg (equivalent to albuterol base 2.5mg) is equivalent to salbutamol 2.5mg.

• Cpila S29 are a 3ml vial, Duolin are a 2.5ml ampoule.

• The supplier has over labelled the carton, and inner foil pack to replace albuterol with salbutamol, however the individual vials will still be labelled albuterol.

• The initial stock has an expiry date of July 2026.

  
  

We thank you for your support in managing this difficult situation.

A webpage with a downloadable patient leaflet is available to help reassure patients about this brand change Duolin nebules on Pharmac website.

Questions

If you have any queries, please contact us at enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz.

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Ngā mihi

Dr David Hughes

Chief Medical Officer | Director Advice & Assessment

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Pharmac | Te Pātaka Whaioranga | PO Box 10 254 | Level 9, 40 Mercer Street, Wellington

DDI: +64 21 962 317 | P: +64 4 460 4990 |  www.pharmac.govt.nz