Kathmandu, Jan. 9 -- Salbutamol is one of 98 medicines under the 'essential drug list' that the government provides free of cost from state-run health facilities across the country. The medication is used to manage respiratory conditions, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Doctors, however, do not prescribe medication; instead, they prescribe inhalers and nebulisers for patients with respiratory problems.

Aminophylline prevents wheezing, shortness of breath, and difficulty in breathing caused by asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other lung diseases.

Likewise, atenolol helps lower patients' heart rate and blood pressure, and both medicines are on the essential drug list and distributed free of cost to needy patien...