Primatene Mist, as well as other generic epinephrine inhalers, that are powered by chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are no longer currently available for the treatment of asthma in the United States. Primatene Mist was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the temporary relief of occasional symptoms of mild asthma.
Many companies have switched propellants from CFCs to hydrofluoroalkane (HFA). HFA inhalers can be used in the same manner as CFC inhalers.
In 2014 an FDA advisory panel voted to not to recommend over the counter marketing for a Primatene Mist HFA inhaler. But after reformulating with HFA propellant and changing the inhaler device, Primatene Mist is once again available over the counter in 2019.
In 2009, federal laws mandated that inhaler propellants (the substance that causes the medicine from your inhaler to enter into your lungs when pressed) change from chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) to hydroflouroalkane (HFA) in order to decrease ozone levels and protect the environment. This allowed pharmaceutical companies to start increasing costs, as the new propellants were considered a "new drug."
Primatene Mist and other generic epinephrine CFC inhalers were taken off the market in the United States, December 31, 2011.
Other OTC Meds Have Entered the Market
Asthmanefrin is not a CFC or HFA inhaler, but is a device that creates a fine mist that can be inhaled into the lung from a liquid. Single unit doses are placed into the well of the device and the mist is then created and breathed in. You continuously inhale until no more mist is created.
Like Primatene Mist, Asthmanefrin is indicated for the "temporary relief of bronchial asthma, including shortness of breath, tightness of chest and wheezing."
Is Primatene Mist Safe?
Many healthcare providers have concerns about whether it is safe to sell over-the-counter asthma medications. Over-the-counter medications aren't sold for hypertension, heart disease, or cholesterol problems—so many ask, why for asthma? As a result, a number of researchers have studied whether or not this practice is safe.
In general, Primatene Mist appears safe if used appropriately. An article in Chest, the journal of the American College of Chest Physicians, concluded that "the occasional use of OTC epinephrine inhalers appears to be safe and effective when used according to labeled instruction by individuals with only mild, intermittent disease." However, the authors went on to point out that 20% of people using OTC epinephrine inhalers like Primatene Mist should not be using them, and should actually be on other asthma medication and under the care of a physician.
Additionally, use of drugs like Primatene Mist has been associated with decreased use of inhaled steroids and under-utilization of physician services.
What Is Primatene Mist Used For?
If you're considering using Primatene Mist, see a healthcare provider first. Asthma is a serious disease that can get worse quickly. You shouldn't use an over-the-counter medication to avoid seeking medical care for asthma.
According to its packaging information, Primatene Mist can be used "for temporary relief of occasional symptoms of mild asthma," such as:
The packaging says to ask a doctor before use if you have:
- ever been hospitalized for asthma
- heart disease
- high blood pressure
- diabetes
- trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland
- thyroid disease
- seizures
- narrow angle glaucoma
Primatene Mist Side Effects
Common side effects of Primatene Mist include:
- Appetite changes
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Hyperactivity
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Shakiness
- Sinus pain
- Sore throat
- Tremor
- Trouble sleeping
- Vomiting
More Serious Side Effects of Primatene Mist
Some Primatene Mist side effects require you to see a healthcare provider immediately. These would include:
- Allergic reactions, like rash, hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue
- Chest pain
- Ear pain
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Hoarseness
- Pounding in the chest
- Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin
- Severe headache or dizziness
- Trouble breathing
Buying Primatene Mist & Other Asthma Medications Over the Internet
If you are considering buying Primatene Mist over the intenet, make sure you use a company you can trust. Reputable companies:
- Are located in the U.S. and licensed by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP)
- Have a licensed pharmacist available to you to address any concerns you have about your asthma medication, just as the pharmacy down the street would
- Only fill prescriptions for appropriately licensed healthcare providers
- Do not sell products not approved by the FDA
- Participate in the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites (VIPPS) certification program
- Protect your privacy and keep your personal information safe
Financial Help for Asthma Medications
There are a number of patient assistance programs that can help you obtain free or low-cost asthma medications. The programs are all very different and will have different rules and qualification standards.
