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Inhaler Fact Sheet Your inhaler is changing… Inhaled medicine is a safe, easy way for people with lung problems to take medicine. The medicine in most inhalers is mixed with a gas. The gas carries the medicine into the lungs. CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) is the most common gas used in inhalers. CFC's are safe for people; but, destroy the ozone layer in our environment. Loss of the ozone layer makes us more prone to skin cancer, cataracts, and other health problems. The Montreal Protocol an international treaty requires countries to stop using gases that break down ozone. The United States will stop making and selling CFC inhalers December 31, 2008. The following inhalers contain CFC and will be changing: Atrovent® (ipratropium); Combivent®; Albuterol; Alupent®; Aerobid® (flunisolide); Azmacort® (triamcinolone); Flovent® (fluticasone); Intal® (cromolyn); and Tilade® (nedocromil). Currently, HFA (hydrofluoroalkane) is being used in place of CFC. Inhalers with HFA work just as well as CFC but will be more expensive until generics are available. The HFA inhaler may feel or taste different when used. HFA inhalers are also prone to clogging so the plastic holder must be cleaned regularly (see package instructions). Talk to your provider about switching to a HFA inhaler. Some mail order pharmacies may switch you automatically. The FDA states there should not be a shortage of inhalers. CFC inhalers will be sold until there are enough HFA inhalers for everyone who needs them. To learn more about inhalers and the environment, visit: To learn more about CFC inhalers and the environment visit: www.fda.gov/cder/mdi/default.htm Revised 12/08