Increased demand during the novel coronavirus pandemic for inhalers that relieve acute symptoms of asthma and other respiratory conditions has led to “reported shortages and limited supply” of the product, according to Health Canada.

The federal health department says it’s “taking steps to mitigate the impact of the shortages” of salbutamol inhalers reported by some manufacturers, but in the meantime, most patients will only get one inhaler at a time when they refill their prescription.

“Health Canada understands the stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and recognizes that Canadians may be concerned about not being able to get the medications they rely on for themselves and their loved ones,” the agency said in a news release on Friday.

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“The health and safety of Canadians is Health Canada’s first priority.”

The release added that Health Canada is working with federal departments, provinces and territories, as well as international partners on the issue.

To prevent drug and medication shortages amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Health Canada has asked Canadians to only purchase the amount of medication they need and health professionals to avoid “prescribing or dispensing larger supplies of medication than necessary.”

The department suggested that people who need the salbutamol inhalers check the Drug Shortage Canada website for updates and “estimated re-supply dates.”

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