CFC Inhalers Will Be Phased Out By End of 2013

The FDA announced that the phase-out of all inhaler medical products containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) will be complete by December 31, 2013. 

The FDA is making an effort to comply with an international treaty regarding the protection of the ozone layer, as CFCs contribute to ozone depletion.

The FDA and EPA have collaborated in this effort to phase out most CFC-containing inhalers. In 2008, Albuterol CFC inhaler was phased out and was replaced with inhalers that use propellants called hydrofluoroalkanes (HFAs) instead.

RELATED: Respiratory Disorders Resource Center

Two inhalation products containing CFCs still remain on the market but will be unavailable after the end of this year:

• Combivent Inhalation Aerosol (ipratropium and albuterol)
• Maxair Autohaler (pirbuterol)

Combivent Respimat Inhalation Spray is currently available as a suitable replacement for Combivent MDI. Combivent Respimat Inhalation Spray is approved by the FDA for the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on a regular aerosol bronchodilator who continue to have evidence of bronchospasm and who require a second bronchodilator.

For more information call (888) 463-6332 or visit FDA.gov.