Inhalers containing CFCs phased out
12 November 2007

People with asthma who take metered dose (aerosol) inhalers to control their symptoms will be transferred to alternative treatments.

In accordance with the 1987 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, all treatments that contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are, where possible, being replaced with CFC-free alternatives - not because they are bad for people with asthma but because of their effect on the ozone layer.

Erica Evans, Asthma Care Development Manager for Asthma UK, said: ‘People currently using the CFC products should arrange an appointment with their GP or asthma nurse to discuss their needs and find a suitable alternative.

'This should be seen as an ideal opportunity for people to review their asthma medicines. Many will find that their asthma improves as a result.'

Asthma UK has produced a factfile on CFC-free inhalers, which explains the background to their implementation and outlines the wide range available to people with asthma; this can be downloaded on the right hand side of this page.