The FDA has ordered Primatene Mist, the only over-the-counter asthma inhaler, be taken off drugstore shelves December 31st.  Primatene Mist has CFC’s which is not environmentally safe as this can deplete the earth’s ozone layer.  Several other products with CFC’s have already been removed from the market for the same reasons.

AAAI Physicians do not endorse Primatene Mist for asthma treatment because this is no longer the standard of care for asthma and the epinephrine in this medication has harmful side effects if over used.  There are safer and more appropriate medications for asthma treatment.

We feel this will improve patient care by decreasing adverse effects from this medication.  This will also encourage patients to see their physician to discuss their symptoms and have appropriate evaluation and treatment.