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Important Information For Users Of Albuterol CFC Inhalers
This resource is also available as a public service announcement in both low-resolution PDF format  and high-resolution PDF format
Albuterol CFC inhalers won't be available after December 31, 2008.
Albuterol inhalers that use CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) are being phased out. CFCs are used as propellants (spray) to move the albuterol medicine out of the inhaler so you can breathe the medicine into your lungs. CFCs are harmful to the environment and can affect everyone's health. CFCs decrease the ozone layer high above the earth that protects against the sun's harmful rays. Loss of ozone can raise the chance of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems. Hydrofluoroalkanes (HFAs) are a different type of propellant (spray). Albuterol inhalers that use HFAs instead of CFCs don't harm the ozone layer.
Switching to a new inhaler will be easier if you know the facts:
- Albuterol HFA inhalers have the same active medicine.
- Albuterol HFA inhalers are safe and effective.
- Albuterol HFA inhalers may taste different. The force of the spray may feel softer than an albuterol CFC inhaler.
- Cleaning the inhaler to prevent clogging and properly priming your albuterol HFA inhaler are very important to make sure medicine sprays from the inhaler so you can breathe it into your lungs.
- The directions that come with the albuterol HFA inhaler will tell you how to use and care for it.
Talk to your doctor about switching to an albuterol HFA inhaler and finding the one that's right for you.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Food and Drug Administration
www.fda.gov/cder/mdi/albuterol.htm
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Date created: May 30, 2008; updated August 28, 2008 |
