Generic Albuterol Inhaler

Currently, the only generic albuterol inhaler available is one of the older versions that contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) -- which are believed to deplete the ozone layer. The three types of old albuterol inhalers will no longer be produced or available on the market after 2008. Newer inhalers that are environmentally friendly, however, are currently being sold. The earliest date that a new generic albuterol inhaler could be available is November 2009.

 

Generic Albuterol Inhaler: An Overview

Albuterol inhalers are prescription medications used to treat asthma and other similar lung problems. Albuterol is part of a class of asthma drugs known as beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short.
 
There are many different albuterol inhalers. Some are equivalent to each other, while others are not. Older inhalers are made using chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the propellants, while newer inhalers use hydrofluoroalkane (HFA), an environmentally friendly propellant. The older inhalers include:
 
These older inhalers cannot be produced or sold after December 31, 2008, due to concerns that CFCs deplete the ozone layer (see Environmentally Friendly Albuterol Inhaler). Newer albuterol inhalers include:
 
Only one type of inhaler (the old Ventolin) has a generic equivalent. Since these generic inhalers use CFCs, they will not be available after 2008. Importantly, none of the new HFA inhalers have generic versions.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;