• 
  • Using Your Inhaler - DEMO
  • Cleaning Your Inhaler
  • Prescribing Information
  • Questions & Answers

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  • Manage Your Asthma
  • Breathing and Asthma
  • What Triggers an Asthma Attack?
  • Daytime Asthma Symptoms
  • Nighttime Asthma Symptoms
  • Asthma Glossary
  • Questions to Ask Your Doctor
  • Trigger Tracer

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  • Inhalers Are Changing
  • Albuterol CFC vs. HFA Questions & Answers

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  • Peak Flow Diary
  • Peak Flow Meter
  • How to Use Your Peak Flow Meter
  • Find Your Personal Best

• 
  • $15 Savings Coupon
  • Asthma Newsletter
  • Refill Reminder

Albuterol CFC vs. HFA Questions & Answers

Why is my rescue inhaler changing?
First, you should know that the medication in your inhaler is not changing. What's changing is a chemical called chlorofluorocarbon (or CFC) that delivers the medication into your lungs. The problem is, CFCs are safe for you but hurt the environment. They damage the ozone layer that protects the earth from the sun's rays.

So as part of a global agreement, the United States will stop using CFCs. CFCs have already been removed from items like hair spray and deodorant. Instead, these items use hydrofluoroalkane—HFA, an earth-friendly alternative to CFCs. Now, HFA is being used in rescue inhalers too.

Will I have to stop using my current rescue inhaler?
Eventually, yes. CFC inhalers won't be available after 2008. The Food and Drug Administration, pharmaceutical companies, and groups like the American Lung Association are working hard to make sure that the transition to HFA inhalers is easy for everyone. The goal is to make sure everyone who needs asthma medication has it.

Will the HFA inhalers work as well? Are they safe?
Yes and yes. The medication in the HFA inhalers is the same as what you're using now—it's the propellant (chemical that delivers the medicine to your lungs) that's different. And pharmaceutical companies have designed these inhalers to deliver your medication as well as your current one. They have passed strict FDA standards for safety and efficacy. Plus, HFA inhalers are not only safe for you, they're safe for the environment too.

Will the HFA inhalers be harder to use?
No. But because the propellant is different, it may take some getting used to. You may find that the HFA inhaler has a slightly different taste or spray force. Though it feels different, it still provides the same medication, and it's proven to be just as effective.

Will the HFA inhalers cost more?
Unfortunately, it's likely. This is because most current inhalers are generic. The HFA inhalers will be available only with brand names for a while. But many programs will help make sure those who can't afford HFA inhalers have access to them. If you are having difficulty affording your medication, you can call 1-888-477-2669 to see if help is available.

When should I think about changing my rescue inhaler?
It's not too early to think about changing now. The sooner you switch, the sooner you will be on the road to making the transition. Ask your doctor about PROVENTIL® HFA.

PROVENTIL® HFA Inhalation Aerosol is indicated in adults and children 4 years of age and older for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm with reversible obstructive airway disease and for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Albuterol (CFC) Inhalation Aerosol is indicated in patients 12 years of age and older for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm with reversible obstructive airway disease and for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm.

Important Safety Information
If your symptoms become significantly worse when you use PROVENTIL® HFA or Albuterol (CFC) Inhalation Aerosols, contact your doctor immediately because this reaction can be life threatening. Worsening symptoms often occur with the first use of a new canister.

What to tell your doctor before using PROVENTIL® HFA or Albuterol (CFC) Inhalation Aerosols: If you have a heart, blood, or seizure disorder, high blood pressure, diabetes, or an overactive thyroid, be sure to tell your doctor. Also make sure your doctor knows all medications you are taking — especially heart medications and drugs that treat depression — because some medications may interfere with how well your asthma medications work.

Side effects with PROVENTIL® HFA and Albuterol (CFC) Inhalation Aerosols are similar: In a clinical study, side effects associated with PROVENTIL® HFA and Albuterol (CFC) Inhalation Aerosols were similar and included infection of the ears, nose, and throat, runny nose, nausea, tremor, and nervousness. Rapid heart beat, vomiting, chest pain, and palpitation occurred more frequently with PROVENTIL® HFA.

Available by prescription only.

For additional important product information, see The PROVENTIL® HFA Package Insert.
For additional important product information on the Warrick inhaler, see The Albuterol Package Insert.

Note: The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any questions about your treatment or medical condition, please consult your doctor or other qualified health care provider.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA.
Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

This site is intended for use by U.S. residents.