The inhaler you have come to know will soon be history. Well, sort of. As with the majority of things these days, the asthma inhaler is getting a "green" overhaul. They're removing the substance that essentially gives you your dose and swapping it out for an earth-friendlier version.
Identification
Basically, the asthma inhaler is going through a change, though not with the actual prescriptions themselves; those will remain the same. What they're doing with the inhaler is removing the CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) and replacing it with HFA (hydrofluoroalkane), a much more earth-friendly substance. Though these "green" inhalers will work differently than the old versions, the albuterol or salbutamol will still be inhaled into the lungs.
Effects
Chlorofluorocarbon and the gases associated with it have been linked to the depletion of the ozone layer; hence the need for a change in any product that uses CFC, including the asthma inhaler, or metered dose inhaler (MDI). And if you're not really sure what the ozone layer does, it protects us, for all intents and purposes, from UV (ultraviolet) rays, exposure to which has been linked to melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. With the depletion in the ozone layer, we have also been experiencing what is called global warming. No matter what your views are on the topic, you can't disagree that changes need to be made to help our environment.
Time Frame
The phase out of chlorofluorocarbon actually started back in 1987, but allowances were made so the pharmaceutical companies could have ample time to find an alternative for CFC in the MDIs. Now that they've found HFA, the phase out can happen in this industry. The hydrofluoroalkane is considered just as safe for use as chlorofluorocarbon, just without the effect of depleting the ozone layer. Currently, both version are available from your pharmacist, but soon the CFC will no longer be available.
Considerations
When you're prescribed this new asthma inhaler, make sure that you fully understand how it works. These HFA inhalers will need to be fully prepared or primed to ensure that you get the recommended dose of your prescription, sometimes taking as many as four sprays to fully ready the MDI for the proper dose. Ask your physician use them as there are a few different models. Also, you'll need to make sure that you properly clean your MDI after use. Some have been know to clog on occasion. Usually, all you'll need to do is use a little warm water to rinse clean every week.
Benefits
Besides the obvious benefit of saving our planet, the HFA inhalers are said to actually do a better job of getting into the lungs. The mist that comes out of the MDI is much finer and contains smaller particles, allowing for your given prescription to go a bit deeper. This should lead to better relief of asthma and its symptoms.
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