CFC free inhalers - why your inhaler is being changed

This page is about changing your inhaler if it contains CFCs

Sometimes inhalers are changed for medical reasons, but they now need to be changed if the inhaler you use contains CFCs (you can tell from the labeling). CFCs are harmless to you, but harmful to the environment.

The CFC-free products are as safe and effective as the inhalers they replace. You will have plenty of time to change and to talk to your doctor or nurse about this.

Changing your inhaler is safe and easy, so it's good news for you, and for the environment.

Why does my inhaler have to change?
What do I need to do?
What benefits will my new inhaler have?
How will my new inhaler be different?
What else do I need to remember?

Why does my inhaler have to change?

Your inhaler will have to change if it contains CFCs.

During the 1970s a hole in the ozone layer was discovered over Antarctica which was linked to CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons). CFCs were introduced in the 1950s for use in refrigerators, cleaning solvents and aerosols such as hairsprays, deodorants and air fresheners. They are now banned frommost commercial uses.
Inhalers which use CFCs as propellants (the gas which pushes the medicine out of the canister), were at first excluded from this ban, but international law says they must be phased out.
New ozone-friendly propellants have now been developed which do not damage the ozone layer. These new propellants have been extensively tested - more so even than existing CFC versions - and approved for use in inhalers.
CFCs in inhalers are not harmful to you, but you need to change your inhaler in order to prevent further damage to the environment.

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What do I need to do?

You do not need to do anything. Your doctor or nurse will talk to you about changing during one of your check-ups. If you want to change sooner, or if you want to ask more questions, arrange to talk to your doctor or practice nurse.

What benefits will my new inhaler have?

Manufacturers are keeping the CFC-free inhalers as similar as possible to the CFC inhalers they replace, but some products may vary, and some will be discontinued.Your doctor or nurse will be able to tell you more.
Most of the new inhalers are equivalent to those they replace. Some differ, and as a result your dosage may need to be reduced, perhaps even halved. Your doctor or practice nurse will let you know which is the best dosage for you.
The environment will be protected.
Changing your inhaler is a good opportunity to check your inhaler technique. A lot of people don't use theirs properly, so ask the doctor or nurse to demonstrate, and then watch you.

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How will my new inhaler be different?

Your new inhaler will look very similar to your last one, although with some inhalers you may notice a slight change in shape and weight.
Because your inhaler uses a new propellant to send medicine down into your lungs, its flavour may be a little different.
The spray may feel softer and warmer in the back of your throat.
If you use a spacer device with your current inhaler, you will probably need to continue to do so. Your doctor or nurse will talk to you about this, and make sure you are clear about what to do.

What else do I need to remember?

You must continue to use your new inhaler as before. Your doctor or nurse will tell you how often to use it.
Once you have discussed and made the change with your doctor or nurse it is important you stick to the same type of inhaler to keep your medication constant. Your doctor or nurse will check with you regularly to make sure you are comfortable with your new inhaler.
Remember to clean your inhaler regularly to keep it working properly. The information leaflet that comes with your inhaler will tell you how to do this.
If you have any questions about your new inhaler, please talk to your doctor or nurse.

Page last medically reviewed: January 2008