Generic Proair HFA

A patent currently prohibits any generic Proair HFA from being manufactured and sold. The earliest date that a generic version of Proair HFA could become available is in November 2009, when the patent expires. However, there are other circumstances that could come up to extend that date past November 2009, such as other patents for specific uses of Proair HFA or lawsuits. Talk with your healthcare provider about programs that can help with affording Proair HFA, as the new albuterol inhalers are more expensive than the older version.

 

Generic Proair HFA: An Overview

Proair HFA® (albuterol inhaler) is a prescription medication used to treat asthma and other similar lung problems. It is part of a class of asthma drugs known as beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, or beta agonists for short.
 
Proair HFA is manufactured by Ivax Laboratories. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Proair HFA from being manufactured in the United States. Proair HFA is one of only a few environmentally friendly albuterol inhalers. Older, "traditional" albuterol inhalers will no longer be available after December 31, 2008. None of the new inhalers have generic equivalents at this time.
 

When Will Generic Proair HFA Be Available?

The first patent for Proair HFA currently expires in November 2009. This is the earliest that a generic version of Proair HFA could become available. However, there are other circumstances that could arise to extend the exclusivity period of Proair HFA beyond 2009. These circumstances could include things such as other patents for specific Proair HFA uses or lawsuits. Once Proair HFA goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Proair HFA drug.
 

Affording Proair HFA

The new albuterol inhalers are more expensive than the older versions, as no generics are available. There is currently a shortage of the older inhalers, which is expected to only get worse until they are no longer available (after December 31, 2008). People will need to switch to one of the new inhalers (such as Proair HFA), since albuterol is not a medication that one can "go without." If you have trouble affording the new inhalers, talk with your healthcare provider. There are programs available to help people who cannot afford the new inhalers.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;