The transition to CFC-free preventer inhalers

Outline drawing of a metered dose inhaler. Under the Montreal Protocol most chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in aerosols, refrigerators and air conditioning plants have been replaced by alternative agents. CFCs have been used in aerosol asthma inhalers for a long time but are gradually being phased out because of their damaging effects on the Earth’s ozone layer.
Pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) containing salbutamol have already been reformulated with non CFC-containing propellants and people with asthma and other respiratory conditions have changed over to CFC-free reliever inhalers.

The same process for preventer pMDIs is now underway and the transition to CFC-free steroid inhalers can be discussed with patients at their asthma review. When switching people with asthma to a CFC-free preventer inhaler, healthcare professionals can:

  • discuss all the available options to find the device and medicine which best suits the person with asthma
  • show the person with asthma how to use and care for their new inhaler
  • offer an updated written personal asthma action plan
  • encourage the person with asthma to return for a follow up appointment if they are unhappy or unsure about their new device or medicine

Asthma UK, with the support of Education for Health, the General Practice Airways Group (GPIAG) and the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC) has prepared a series of resources to support healthcare professionals to plan and carry out the switch to CFC-free preventer inhalers for their patients. Click on the links below to download these resources:

Ordering resources

Free copies of CFC-free posters and leaflets and materials supporting asthma reviews can be ordered by phone or email. Call Asthma UK’s Supporter & Information Team (08456 03 81 43; (info@asthma.org.uk).

Asthma UK Adviceline

If you or your patients would like further information about the CFC-free transition please contact the Asthma UK Adviceline and speak to an asthma nurse specialist (Mon-Fri, 9pm-5pm) 08457 01 02 03 or email via the web www.asthma.org.uk/adviceline.


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