Salbutamol/Almeterol (Proventil HFA) Drug for AIDS/HIV: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Salbutamol (almeterol)
(Proventil HFA, United States)

Use:

Salbutamol is used to open airways in such conditions as asthma, however now it is available in a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) free metered inhaler. These inhalers use hydrofluoroalkanes or HFA's.

How It Works:

These inhalers do not contain the CFC's which cause ozone damage. The inhaler has been redesigned - valves and surfactants have been changed.

Side Effects:

With HFA's the spray is "softer". There is no cold, freon-like effect on the back of the throat.

Cautions for People:

People must realize, before they use these inhalers that the lack of a feeling of coldness at the back of the throat does NOT mean that the inhaler is not working.
These inhalers provide a more consistent dose in that there are fewer problems due to temperature changes or storage position.

Drug Interactions:

Further Reading:

J Resp Dis 1996;17:34
Chest 1996;109:702
J Allergy Clin Immol 1995;96:50
FDC Reports 1996;58(34):3

Added to Virtual Drugstore November 1996.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.