Generic Proventil HFA Gets Green Light

(RxWiki News) The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first generic version of a common asthma inhaler.

This inhaler is found under the brand name Proventil HFA. The active ingredient is albuterol sulfate.

This medication is approved for use in those 4 years old and older to do the following:

• Prevent or treat bronchospasm associated with asthma (marked by wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness)
• Prevent breathing difficulty during exercise

Asthma affects more than 26 million people in the United States, including around 7 million children.

Common side effects of this medication include nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate, stuffy and runny nose, upper respiratory tract infection, tremor and nervousness. It’s important to know how to use the inhaler correctly to ensure the medication gets into your lungs. Your local pharmacist can show you how to properly use the inhaler.

Speak with your health care provider if:

• You notice this medication no longer manages your symptoms
• You notice your symptoms get worse
• Your prescription instructs you to use the inhaler as needed when you have symptoms and you notice you are using your medication more often than usual

The approval of this generic was granted to Cipla Limited.

Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions.