Fatwa: Does Nasal Spray or Asthma Inhaler Break the Fast in Ramadan?
Al-Eftaa clarifies the rulings on using nasal sprays and asthma inhalers during fasting and how patients should handle medical needs in Ramadan.
With the approaching Ramadan 2026, many Muslims ask whether certain medications break the fast, particularly nasal sprays and asthma inhalers.
Nasal Spray:
Al-Eftaa stated that nasal sprays and drops invalidate the fast if they reach the stomach. They should preferably be used after Iftar or before dawn. In urgent medical cases, they can be used with the intention of making up the fast later.
Asthma Inhaler:
Dr. Ali Gomaa explained that asthma inhalers release mist that reaches the throat, which breaks the fast. Patients experiencing respiratory attacks may use the inhaler and break the fast, then make up the day later, as this is a concession from Allah for those in need.
Nasal Congestion Spray:
Scholars differ on its ruling:
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Maliki, Hanbali, and Shafi’i: If it reaches the throat, it breaks the fast.
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Hanafi: It does not break the fast as it is not food or drink, and rinsing or inhaling is allowed as long as it is not excessive.
Al-Eftaa advises patients to use necessary medications while considering these rulings and to maintain proper fasting with make-up days when needed.
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