August 5, 2008

Millions of patients with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions are facing big changes in their inhalers. A ruling by the Food and Drug Administration will end production and distribution of all albuterol inhalers containing CFC propellants this year. As of December 31, 2008, no CFC albuterol inhalers will be manufactured or sold in the United States.

Respiratory therapists represented by the American Association for Respiratory Care are urging patients to talk with their doctor about this transition to an HFA-propelled albuterol inhaler.

“We want patients to be informed about this transition when their inhaler has been changed,” said Tom Kallstrom, Chief Operating Officer of the AARC. “There are critical differences between CFC and HFA inhalers and patients need to know how to use these medications properly,” Kallstrom continued.

Kallstrom offered these tips for using the new HFA inhalers.

HFA inhalers have a softer spray. The sensation of the aerosol plume will be less powerful, so it will feel softer than the CFC propelled inhaler.
HFA inhalers will have a different taste.
HFA inhalers will have a warmer sensation. CFC propellants have a cool feel that is not as apparent in an HFA.
HFA inhalers have different cleaning requirements. HFA inhalers need to be cleaned more frequently than CFCs to prevent medication build-up and blockages.
HFA inhalers have different priming requirements. It is different than instructions for CFC inhalers so it’s important to follow manufacturer’s recommendations.

These are lifesaving medications, you need to know that inhalers are changing and confer with your medical professional about the facts and choices you need to make.