Albuterol HFA inhalers
They are NEW!. Same medication! Different procedures.
In January 2009 albuterol inhalers containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) were replaced by albuterol inhalers containing hydrofluoroalkane (HFA). HFA is more environmentally friendly.
Device considerations:
- There is a slight difference in the smell and taste of the new HFA inhalers compared to the older CFC inhalers.
- The new inhalers require frequent priming and cleaning to ensure proper dose delivery.
HFA inhalers expire four (4) months after they are opened and first does dispensed. This means you will have to use 3 inhalers per year, even if you only rarely use your inhaler.
Patient education:
- Priming: All patients should shake their inhaler and the release four test sprays into the air before the first dose of the inhaler of if has not been used for 2 weeks.
- Inhaler Technique: With lips tightly sealed around the mouthpiece, push down on teh canister and breath in up to 10 seconds before exhaling. If a second dose is needed, wait 1 minuter before repeating.
- Cleaning: At least once a week, wash plastic actuator in warm water for 30 seconds and let air dry thoroughly.
- Clogging: If the device delivers an insufficient dose, see the cleaning instructions.
- Dose Counting: Patients should keep track of the number of doses delivered as some inhalers may continue to release propellant although the active medication is gone.
- Spacer Technique: children and some adults may benefit from a spacer device. Let us know