The AOK Association has decided to cover the additional costs of salbutamoli-containing MDIs that exceed the fixed amount for its insured persons from 1 February 2026. This exemption applies for the time being for the duration of the supply shortage identified by the Federal Ministry of Health. Salbutamol, a beta-2 sympathomimetic, is used to treat bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive bronchitis (COPD).

The Federal Office for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM) had published recommendations to mitigate the supply problems due to ongoing supply bottlenecks. The currently available preparations are priced above the fixed amount, so that insured persons would normally incur co-payments. Since not all patients can be switched to alternatives and German goods at a fixed amount are currently not available nationwide, the AOKs cover the difference costs. In recent weeks and months, metered-dose inhalers containing salbutamol have already been available to AOK policyholders at no extra charge.

AOK board member Carola Reimann calls for more effective measures to strengthen security of supply in view of recurring supply and supply bottlenecks for medicines. This includes a mandatory early warning system along the entire supply chain, as is already being implemented in other countries. In addition, stockpiling and warehousing at wholesalers and pharmaceutical companies – also independently of discount contracts – must be significantly expanded.

The regulation is intended to relieve those affected in the acute bottleneck situation and to ensure continuous therapy with the indispensable active ingredient.

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

Gender Notice. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple naming and gendered designations are used for better readability. ected.