Asthma inhalers have recently been changed. The chemical used to push the medicine out of the inhaler (the propellant) has been switched from chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) to a more environmentally friendly substance called hydrofluoroalkane (HFA).

The medicine in the new HFA inhaler is exactly the same as the old CFC inhaler, but there are a few differences:

• The new HFA inhaler may deliver a spray that has a different taste and smell to it.
• The sensation of the HFA spray in your mouth and throat may feel less forceful. Some people report the mist as having a gentler and warmer feel to it.
• HFA inhalers must stay dry! Never use the “float test” to check the amount of inhaled medicine left in the inhaler.
• HFA inhalers need special care in order to make sure that they work properly and deliver the correct amount of asthma medication.

Each HFA inhaler has special instructions for “priming” or getting the inhaler ready to use when it is new or has not been used in awhile. 

Each HFA inhaler has specific cleaning instructions for the plastic actuator/mouthpiece to prevent build-up and blockage. Below are some common instructions on how to clean HFA inhalers.

Clean Regularly
Prime for the inhaler first time and occasional use. It’s important to wash the inhaler mouthpiece at least once a week to prevent clogging. The first time you use your HFA inhaler, you will need to prime it. You will need to re-prime it if it has been more than two weeks since you last used it.

Keep Track Of Your Puffs
Keep track of your puffs so you don’t run out of your rescue medicine. Count the number of puffs you use, including the puffs used to prime your albuterol inhaler (e.g., use a notebook, calendar, or dose counting card [see on back side]). When you reach 200 puffs, start using a new inhaler. Most inhalers will still deliver puffs even after the medicine is gone, so it’s better to rely on a puff count.