The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has issued a medicine supply notification (MSN) for ipratropium bromide 250micrograms/1ml and 500micrograms/2ml nebuliser liquid unit dose vials. There will be limited supply until late March 2025. 

Actions for prescribers

Existing supplies of ipratropium nebules should be prioritised for the management of severe airflow obstruction, such as in acute asthma and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and in patients with a tracheostomy for whom the nebulised route may be more suitable.

For all other patients in primary care, clinicians should refer to the SPS Medicines Shortage Tool MSN/2024/076 for actions required and supporting information.