What to do now?   There are no other OTC inhaler options.  All other options are prescription only.  Most likely, an albuterol inhaler (by prescription) will be the most appropriate alternative.  Here are some options to help with paying for the inhalers: Proair assitance program, Proventil coupon,  Xopenex coupon and Ventolin assistance program.

HFA inhaler switch: HFA inhalers feel quite different then the old inhalers.  The old (CFC) inhalers had a propellent in them so people could “feel” the drug when using it.  The new HFA inhalers have a finer mist so often patients complain they can’t taste/feel the medicine going in….be assured, the medicine is still being delivered! 

If you think your HFA inhaler is broken -please see the article My HFA Inhaler is Broken

How do you feel about Primatene Mist inhalers being taken off the market?  How do you feel about the new HFA inhalers? We would love to hear from you –please leave a comment!

Yes, those inhalers NEED to be cleaned.  Most HFA inhalers should be cleaned WEEKLY.  When I tell people this their eyes usually bug out and they say, “Weekly???”

So the bad news is that it needs to be done weekly….the good news is that it is quite easy!  You just take the metal canister out (the canister holds the actual drug).  Then rinse the plastic inhaler with warm water for 30 seconds.  Allow it to air dry thoroughly before using it again.  

It is really that simple -the plastic part of the inhaler gets clogged and needs to be rinsed.  It is good to clean it weekly even if you do not notice any problems because it is possible that you are not receiving as much of the medicine as you should.

Just a note here -with the change from the “old generic inhalers” to the new brand only HFA inhalers, the price has definitely increased!  For some help with prescription assistance call the American Lung Association Lung Helpline at 800-LUNG-USA (option 2).

If you would like to learn more ways to save please see 90 Ways to Save on Your Prescription Drugs.