Asthma & Allergy Awareness Month: Switch to HFA Inhalers

Thursday, May 29, 2008

JC Jones MA RN

Every asthmatic has an inhaler - but did you know that beginning January 1, 2009 it will no longer be legal to manufacture or sell CFC inhalers in the US? CFC's are chlorofluorocarbons propellants that have been used in MDI's (metered-dose inhalers) for years. Pursuant to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer 1987 Treaty, it was agreed that CFC inhalers would be phased out. The production and consumption of CFCs in the United States was banned as of January 1, 1996. Drug manufacturers are now required to manufacture inhalers with hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants.

All patients should be switched to HFA inhalers. Check your inhalers, your child's inhalers and look for HFA on the the label. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist if they have not switched you over already.

Labels: asthma, HFA, MDI

Permalink | Email Post

The Healthline Site, its content, such as text, graphics, images, search results, HealthMaps, Trust Marks, and other material contained on the Healthline Site ("Content"), its services, and any information or material posted on the Healthline Site by third parties are provided for informational purposes only. None of the foregoing is a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Healthline Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Please read the Terms of Service for more information regarding use of the Healthline Site.