If your child uses an albuterol inhaler, you need to be aware that there is an important change to this medication.  Albuterol inhalers are used for quick relief of wheezing or daily to help control asthma.  In 2009, the albuterol inhalers will be powered by a more "eco-friendly" chemical called hydrofluoroalkane (HFA).

How this change effects you:

• The "old" Albuterol inhalers will no longer be manufactured and will no longer be available.
• HFA Inhalers will be used differently than the "old-fashioned" kind. The medicine will feel and taste differently, but works just a well.
• The particles that are being inhaled will "feel" smaller, as though you are getting less medication, but the amount of medication is "equally calibrated" so you are not to take an extra puff.
• The new ihalers may cost more.
• The new inhalers will be referred to as any of the following: Ventolin HFA, Proventil HFA, or ProAir HFA.

Make sure to talk to your doctor about how to use and care for your new inhaler. If you would like more information, you can read further at Fox News.

More information and coupons can be found at the manufacturers websites:

GlaxoSmithKline -  - Ventolin HFA

Schering Plough - Provental HFA

Teva Speciality Pharmaceuticals - ProAir HFA