NHS Changes to Salbutamol Inhalers

The NHS is replacing some salbutamol (blue reliever) inhalers with lower‑carbon alternatives such as Salamol CFC‑Free, because the propellant gas in traditional Ventolin inhalers is a powerful greenhouse gas, while the new inhalers deliver the same drug and dose but with about one‑third the carbon emissions www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.

Why the change is happening

• Environmental impact: Metered dose inhalers (MDIs) like Ventolin contain propellant gas that contributes to climate change. NHS data shows inhaler propellants make up around 5% of the NHS’s annual carbon emissions www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
• Greener option: Salamol CFC‑Free contains the same salbutamol dose but uses less propellant, producing roughly one‑third the carbon emissions of Ventolin www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
• Effectiveness: Research shows it is equally effective as Ventolin when used correctly www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
• Other benefits: Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and soft mist inhalers (SMIs) have no greenhouse gas propellants and a much lower carbon footprint Asthma & Lung UK.

What it means for you

• Prescription change: From now, NHS practices issuing blue reliever inhalers will prescribe Salamol CFC‑Free instead of Ventolin www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
• No change in asthma care: The medicine and dose are the same; only the inhaler brand and propellant change www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
• Possible differences: You may notice a different taste or feel in the inhaler www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
• Action for patients:
  • Use your inhaler as prescribed and ensure your asthma is well controlled.
  • If you use 3+ reliever inhalers a year, speak to your GP about an asthma review www.vennpcn.nhs.uk+1.
  • Return used inhalers to your pharmacy for safe disposal www.vennpcn.nhs.uk.
  • Ask your GP or pharmacist if you’re suitable for a DPI or SMI www.vennpcn.nhs.uk+1.

Related NHS guidance

• Salbutamol inhalers: These are reliever medicines for quick symptom relief in asthma or COPD NHS+1.
• Asthma management: NHS and Lung UK recommend that no one with asthma should only have a blue reliever inhaler; daily preventer treatment is advised Asthma & Lung UK+1.
• Lower‑carbon inhalers: DPIs and SMIs are options with no propellant gases Asthma & Lung UK.

In summary: The NHS change is environmental, not clinical — you’ll get the same salbutamol, but in a greener inhaler. If you have concerns about your asthma control or inhaler type, speak to your GP, asthma nurse, or pharmacist.