FAQs

HFA inhalers share all of the same benefits as CFC inhalers-but there are some important differences, too. We've asked experts from the RAD Foundation key questions about HFA inhalers to help you get acquainted with your HFA inhaler.

Do HFA albuterol inhalers work as well as CFC albuterol inhalers?
Yes. HFA albuterol inhalers have been proven to work just as well as CFC albuterol inhalers for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm (difficulty breathing) associated with conditions like asthma and COPD. In fact, the FDA studied HFA inhalers extensively before approving them and making the decision to ban CFC inhalers.
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Will my new HFA albuterol inhaler make me feel different?
No. Your new HFA albuterol inhaler should not make you feel any different. You may notice that the force of the spray (the plume) is softer than what you are used to, that it tastes different, or is not as cold. It's important to understand that this doesn't mean you aren't getting enough medicine to your lungs. HFA inhalers contain a finer mist of albuterol (which may actually penetrate better into your lungs), but the medicine is the same as you have always gotten.
You should only take the amount of puffs your doctor has prescribed for you; don't take more because the spray feels softer. If you aren't sure that you are getting enough medicine or using your HFA inhaler the right way, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she can answer your questions and help you feel comfortable using your inhaler.
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My doctor just transitioned me to an HFA albuterol inhaler. Will it keep my asthma under control?.
That's a tricky question. No rescue inhaler should ever be used to keep asthma under control. Your doctor may have prescribed regular controller medicines, such as inhaled corticosteroids, for that. Your HFA rescue inhaler is the medicine to use when you feel the symptoms from asthma or COPD. It is a rescue inhaler, but it is not designed to control persistent asthma over time. Some patients also use rescue inhalers before they exercise to prevent asthma symptoms that are triggered by exercise; these patients have what is known as exercise-induced bronchospasm. You should use your HFA rescue inhaler exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you are using it more than twice a week, or if your asthma symptoms don't go away when you use it or if they worsen, talk with your healthcare provider right away. There are many options your doctor can explore with you to manage asthma. With the right plan, you can expect your asthma to be well controlled.
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Are there any differences between how I should use the new HFA albuterol inhalers and my old CFC?
Yes. There are some simple yet important differences between the new HFA inhalers and the old CFC ones. HFA inhalers need to be primed and cleaned differently and more often than CFC ones. They can get clogged if you don't care for your device, so it's very important that you clean the mouthpiece under warm running water at least once a week.
Each of the 4 available HFA rescue inhalers is different, so you'll need to make sure you understand exactly how to use and care for whichever one your doctor prescribes for you. Follow the instructions that come with your HFA inhaler, and don't be afraid to ask your doctor or your pharmacist if you have questions. Your healthcare providers are your partners in the management of your asthma!
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My doctor just switched me over to an HFA inhaler. The spray tastes and smells different than the spray from my old CFC inhaler. Is there something wrong with it?
No. There isn't anything wrong with your new inhaler. The spray from HFA inhalers may smell or taste a bit different from what you are used to, but that is normal. It doesn't mean there is anything wrong with your inhaler-it's just one of the differences you might find with an HFA inhaler. You are getting the same medicine and benefit, and in time you may not even notice this difference anymore.
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Nothing is coming out of my HFA inhaler. What am I doing wrong?
Your inhaler may be clogged, which certainly can be a problem. When your inhaler gets clogged, you may not be getting enough medicine to your lungs when you need it. HFA inhalers can get clogged more easily than CFC inhalers, so it's very important that you follow the instructions for cleaning your inhaler. Be sure you rinse it under warm running water at least once a week, and follow the instructions for drying it, too.
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I was used to my older CFC inhaler. Can I just continue filling prescriptions for CFC albuterol instead of transitioning to a new HFA inhaler?
No. CFC inhalers are no longer permitted to be produced in the United States as of December 31, 2008, and their supply will eventually disappear. Talk with your healthcare provider about your concerns. He or she may be able to help you choose the right device for you and help you get comfortable with your new inhaler. In only a short time, you will not miss your CFC inhaler at all!
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Are the new HFA inhalers more expensive than my old CFC inhaler?
It is too soon for generic HFA albuterol inhalers to be available, so patients who may be used to paying for generic inhalers may now have to pay for brand-name devices. The pharmaceutical companies who manufacture HFA inhalers understand that this can be difficult for some patients and their families. Some manufacturers are offering financial assistance programs to help patients transition to the new HFA inhalers. Talk to your healthcare provider or insurance carrier if you need assistance. You can also see the resource section of this guide for more information and a list of websites to visit.
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