Generic Proventil HFA

A patent prevents any generic Proventil HFA from being manufactured. The earliest that a generic version of the Proventil HFA inhaler may become available is in 2010; however, certain events (such as lawsuits) could keep generic forms of Proventil HFA from being sold at that time. After December 31, 2008, the older, "traditional" generic albuterol inhalers will no longer be available.

 

Generic Proventil HFA: An Overview

Proventil® 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.
 
Proventil HFA is manufactured by the Schering-Plough Corporation. It is currently under the protection of a patent that prevents any generic Proventil HFA from being manufactured in the United States. Proventil 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 Proventil HFA Be Available?

The first patent for Proventil HFA currently expires in July 2010. This is the earliest that a generic version of Proventil HFA could become available. However, there are circumstances that could arise to extend the exclusivity period of Proventil HFA beyond 2010. This could include such things as other patents for specific Proventil HFA uses or lawsuits. Once Proventil HFA goes off patent, there may be several companies that manufacture a generic Proventil HFA drug.
 

Affording Proventil HFA

The new albuterol inhalers are more expensive than their older versions, as no generics are available. There is a shortage of the older inhalers, which is only expected to worsen until they will no longer be available at all (after December 31, 2008). People will need to switch to one of the new inhalers (such as Proventil HFA), since albuterol is not a medication that one can "go without." If you have trouble affording the new inhalers, talk to 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;