Nationwide Shortage of Albuterol Inhalers and Off-Label Use in COVID-19 Patients

Abstract

The surge in COVID-19 cases during the 2020 Spring led to a nationwide shortage of albuterol inhalers. As a new surge has begun, shortages may make it difficult for patients with obstructive lung disease, including children with asthma, to obtain refills. Since there is no evidence that albuterol relieves symptoms in COVID-19 patients with respiratory symptoms not caused by bronchospasm, it is reasonable for clinicians to not prescribe it for COVID-19 patients unless they also have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

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