Online community protests over inhaler switch

It seemed as if the switch from CFC inhalers to HFA inhalers would go off without a hitch.

Manufacturers increased production to prevent shortages, and the American Lung Association even produced a public service announcement announcing the change.

But now, a backlash is forming. A small group of people with asthma is raising a commotion online - saying that the new inhalers don't work as well and, because most HFA inhalers don't have dose-counters, the devices could threaten their lives during an asthma attack.

The group started an online petition, fueled by blogs and forums. More than 2,000 people have signed it, complete with comments raging against the change. (Some signatories chose to have their names remain private.)

Their complaints range from the higher cost, to the bad taste, to allegations that the new inhalers don't work or even make symptoms worse.

Even consumer affairs websites are getting in on the act: this one chronicles several episodes where the inhaler made the person with asthma feel worse.

Patients are slowly learning that at least some inhalers contain ethanol and can worsen an attack. (PDF).

For tips on helping your patients adjust, visit the AAAAI article on transitioning to HFA inhalers. A patient assistance program from the partnership for prescription assistance could help defray the costs.