Proventil HFA and Depression

There are many side effects that may occur among people using Proventil HFA, and depression may be one of them. In clinical trials of Proventil HFA, depression was reported in less than 3 percent of people using the inhaler. However, it's difficult to know for certain whether depression is the result of the Proventil HFA or other factors.

 

Proventil HFA and Depression: 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.
 
Just like any other medicine, there are potential side effects with Proventil HFA. One of these possible side effects is depression.
 

How Common Is Depression in People Taking Proventil HFA?

The safety and effectiveness of Proventil HFA has been studied in many people. In these clinical trials, less than 3 percent of people reported depression as a side effect of Proventil HFA (although the exact percentage was not reported). Depression was more common in people taking Proventil HFA compared to those not taking Proventil HFA.
 
Although depression was reported by people who took part in these studies, it can be difficult to determine if there is a cause-and-effect relationship between Proventil HFA and depression. Given how uncommonly depression is reported with Proventil HFA and how common it is within the general population, it is hard to know for sure if depression is caused by Proventil HFA, other factors, or a combination of both.
 

Proventil HFA and Depression: Recommendations

For people taking Proventil HFA, depression may occur. Therefore, if you notice any possible depression symptoms while taking Proventil HFA, or if something "just does not seem right," you should talk to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose and treat the problem. If your healthcare provider believes the medicine may be causing your symptoms, he or she may recommend a different asthma medication.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;