Answer/Reply:

I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT. i HATE PRO AIR. THEY ARE SOO SMALL AND THEY RUN OUT EXTREMELY FAST. THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ACTUAL PUFF IS POOR. I'VE USING MY NEBULIZER ALOT MORE LATELY BECAUSE THE PRO AIR DOESN'T WORK HOW ITS SUPPOSED TO.

17 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-04 02:29:14

Answer/Reply:

I am sooo glad aI am not the only one who resents the fact that Albuterol was taken off the market because of CFC's. I am somewhat of an environmentalist and advocate clean air. I have also found that the Preventil does not work well or that I am using it more. PLUs it costs 2X as much as the Alvuterol! Pharmaceuticals are making money and the government is also. I for one want my Albuterol back. Who do we contact to take care of this? Or can the company that handles Albuterol make it so there is not CFC's? I do not know how that works, but maybe they could try that! 53 year old female

54 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-28 17:01:28

Answer/Reply:

savecfcinhalers.org

74 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-19 15:27:03

Answer/Reply:

Hi, have you thought about possibly taking all your information to another Doctor for a second opinion. I would mention ALL the different medications you are on, b/c maybe they are affecting the effectiveness of each medication. Just a thought. Good luck & God bless.
39 year old female

39 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-31 13:58:29

Answer/Reply:

I also agree my albuterol inhaler was better than the proventil they put me on did not feel like I was getting the same amount of medication.They then put me on pro air feel just the same. But my internest put me on ventolin and it works like my old inhaler. hope this helps

38 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-10 19:46:59

Answer/Reply:

Have you tried a nebulizer with albuterol before and perhaps after your run?
You can buy one for around $140.00 and your insurance will probably pay for it.

58 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-15 13:59:30

Answer/Reply:

I agree with you, the new Pro-Air inhalers suck, and they always clog. Try asking your Dr. for Vetolin HFA its albuterol sulfate see if that works.

36 year old female

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-20 14:46:01

Answer/Reply:

A nebulizer is fine if you are going to be close to home. If you go out to run somewhere other than at home the nebulizer will not be convenient. A lot of ppl go out to run in different areas rather than stay confined to one area. Nebulizers are great but are not convenient unless you are going to be at home or nearby. This is my experience with nebulizers.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-20 17:47:20

Answer/Reply:

Has anyone else complained about the design of the ProAir HFA inhaler? The thing has all kinds of sharp edges that jab me in the leg when I carry one in my pants pocket.

58 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-15 14:13:38

Answer/Reply:

This is definitely something you should discuss with your doctor. Using ProAir multiple times close together is not good at all. Taking a break from running until you see your doctor would be a wise approach to take.

20 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-16 11:55:42

Answer/Reply:

I, too, have experienced a MUCH LESS EFFECTIVE inhaler in the NON CFC inhalers, including - but not limited to - the ProAir. I firmly believe that the CFC method of delivery must somehow force the medication further into the lungs. The shame is that Washington kills PERCEIVED problems with an elephant gun and ignores clear & present dangers as 'a rainy day'. The amount of CFC added to the air from inhalers in a year is equal to the emissions of a single car running for about 72 seconds.

58 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-16 11:59:37

Answer/Reply:

My kids and I had the same problem when we switched from Albuterol w/CFC to Pro Air. It never seemed to help no matter how much you used. We have found Xopenex works better out of all the different inhalers. So all 4 of us have switched to it. Still like the old Albuterol best. Good luck.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-16 19:10:17

Answer/Reply:

I agree with everything you have said I to was forced to switch, and now it is hard to just do my job,I am a house keeper but now it takes twice as long and the inhailer does nothing for me. So glad to hear it is not just me.I tought I was getting worse
50 year old Female

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-17 16:06:20

Answer/Reply:

I totally understand your issues. I have COPD and used Albuterol which worked and then was forced to go to other inhalers. Combivent almost killed me so don't try that. I am on Proair now and it doesn't work so have to use my updraft to get by. Really a pain when you are away from your machine. Eventually I will have to take steroids to jump start my lungs again. Don't suffer too long before seeking help. Last year I almost died because I was trying to wait until my doctor appointment the next day. ER said I would not have made it and the bottom line is I caused myself heart damage. If the lungs don't get enough oxygen it affects the heart. Good luck with your search and if you find something please post it.

63 year old female

63 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-17 16:24:33

Answer/Reply:

The new inhalers(pro air,proventil) don't work well for me either, nor do they work well for over a dozen people I know. I do prefer the pro air over others. I've been using my inhaler about 5x more than I did with the CFC.
So my guess is that the pharmacudical companies are making a lot money more with these inferior products.

38 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-17 16:47:54

Answer/Reply:

With albuterol it would start my heart racing before aerobics, so it was not good for me. I have now since went back to my old faithful, primateen mist, it works actually better than albuterol. Also so if they still have the ampules that go in the vaporizer machine in abuterol. Joseph S. 46 year old male.

47 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-17 20:25:23

Answer/Reply:

I have experienced the same thing, I have resorted to buying in Mexico and Canada as you can still purchase it there. I have had asthma since i was 40 and am 49 now. I have tried many brands of inhlaers and none have worked.

Enviromentalist again have gone to far.

Doug
Sammamish Washington

49 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-18 11:00:54

Answer/Reply:

I also hate the new inhalers and would love to get my hands on the older version. Where can you find them ?

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-22 11:47:26

Answer/Reply:

I have had the same problem with the new HFA inhalers, ProAir and Ventolin, that replaced my generic CFC Albuterol inhalers. They don't work. I have also developed atrial fibrillation and am now on heart medication. My exercise regime and daily life have been affected to the point that I now feel ill and crippled from my untreatable COPD. Can you share where and how you are buying the old CFC albuterol inhalers outside the country? Do you do this online or actually go to Mexico and Canada for medicine. Do you get a doctor there to prescribe? Thanks for any help. Doris, 63-year-old female

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-27 16:23:04

Answer/Reply:

I have used Albuterol for 40 years and was prescribed ProAir 2 weeks ago. It was like using nothing! It did not help me one bit and I had to use my nebulizer to make it through the night. I had no more money to pay for a prescription of Proventil the Dr called in for me the next day. Lucky for me my neighbor had an extra! I also use Advair 50/250 twice a day. I would really be interested in knowing how to purchase the Albuterol from Canada and I also live in Washington. Don't know if I can post my email here for someone to email me that info but will try. It is lorituck53@hotmail.com. Thanks.

57 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-28 22:59:04

Answer/Reply:

I didn't know you could get it in Mexico and Canada. I agree - proair isn't worth a penny. Please send me info on how you can aquire the albuterol. odie3129@hotmail.com

28 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-03 14:43:33

Answer/Reply:

How do you go about getting the old Albuterol inhaler in Canada? Do you need a local script? The 'new' Ventolin sucks.......I've even tried the spacer and find it really does no good. Would be worth a trip over the bridge for this medication. I also use Spiriva once a day but don't think I'm getting any benefit from it.

Jeanine
North Tonawanda, New York

72 year old female.

73 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-01 19:42:25

Answer/Reply:

I agree with you I don't feel ProAir works as good as the Albuterol with CFC - I feel almost anything I do is a struggle - just simply walking can be a problem I try using the ProAir but I'm still short of beath just walking a short distance - I wish I knew the answer if you find one out please let me know - I would love to get back to enjoying life not just gasping by

48 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-18 12:54:23

Answer/Reply:

YIKES! Albuterol eliminated? NOOO!
First off, why Albuterol? Asthma? If so, you should have some improvement in cardio and some reduction in the severity of exercise-induced asthma. I have - it is a goal in my running but takes maintenance. I still use albuterol for more strenuous runs (like a 2.5 mile 1500' elevation hill trail) but can go run without any inhaler once or twice a week if I've been consistent. I got to where I am by wanting to reduce asthma through exercise and it worked for me...to the degree that I now need to do sprint training to get off my current plateau. Try sprint training (at first WITH albuterol, if you can get it - read up on it first). Consult a trainer, and more importantly, a respiratory therapist. Read Paul Sorvino's book about conquering asthma for inspiration.

41 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-18 14:07:35

Answer/Reply:

I have also had the same problems with the ProAir; the Albuterol helped so much more. I am also using an inhaler Alvesco that seems to be helping twice a day. I do feel better but still it is a struggle to walk several miles now. I used to walk 3 to 4 miles a day. I am unable to go that far but I have started out slowly now and if I take it easy I don't have to use the inhaler as much.
I am also taking allergy shots for dust & ragweed.

51 year old female.

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-18 15:47:39

Answer/Reply:

I've been using Proventil HFA inhalers for over a year now and have found that they are no where near as effective as the CFC inhalers. I've mentioned this to my doctor on serveral occasions and the only response I get is 'I've heard that from a lot of my patients'. Is there any effective replacements for these inhalers or do we just have to try to live with this govermental regulatory insanity.

67 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-19 08:13:59

Answer/Reply:

I've been using Proventil HFA inhalers for over a year now and have found that they are no where near as effective as the CFC inhalers. I've mentioned this to my doctor on serveral occasions and the only response I get is 'I've heard that from a lot of my patients'. Is there any effective replacements for these inhalers or do we just have to try to live with this govermental regulatory insanity.

67 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-19 08:18:35

Answer/Reply:

I really think that you should try Advair Diskus. I have taken Salsa dancing to the extreme and I work out between treadmill and spinning several miles daily without having to use my rescue inhaler. I have exercise induced asthma and allergies. Advair is the only thing that works for me.I have tried other asthma management inhalers and they don't work for me. I know because I start using my rescue inhaler constantly with the other management med's.
I highly recommend Advair to everyone.

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-19 09:56:05

Answer/Reply:

Wow, I have suffer with Asthma since birth. I was also using Albuterol. That worked prefect for me.I was changed to ProAir. I struggled for air. Climbing stairs are a chore. I was told that the Albuterol Inhalers were bad for the environment and were discontinued. I questioned it with my doctor. he confirmed that patients are complaining about the ProAir being to weak. I was then given Proventil. Worked wonders. However my Aetna insurance will not cover the Proventil. I was prescribed Pro Air again.

54 year old female

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-19 14:20:20

Answer/Reply:

We have had similar results from the "new" Albuterol. brand name or generic, no difference! Are there that many inhalers being used that the EPA needs to eliminate the propellant and related formulas that work to keep us breathing? Ate there not bigger offenders?!?

57 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-19 20:23:27

Answer/Reply:

I have COPD and have ised albuterol and find that atravent works/ed much better ! BUT to your question are there not bigger offenders ? YES let me explain I used to sell freon (a CFC), Dupont held the patient on R12 a CFC (which was huge money) the patient ran out and they convinced the government and EPA that R12 was adding to the depletion of the ozone a half truth yes it does BUT the oceans and volcanos put out more CFC's then man ever will in a million years and Dupont just happened to have the ONLY ozone safe replacment for R12 and held the patient for ! getting the picture now ? MONEY ! the ozone will do what it has in millions of years and our little inhailers will not have any effect on it what so ever !

51 year old Male

Posted: 2009-06-02 17:10:55

Answer/Reply:

I think the drug companies probably paid megabucks to hire an environmental lobbyist (under the table) to lobby against the inhalers with the propellant because they are more expensive for us to buy so they are in turn making more money and we are spending more money for a product that doesn't work as well if at all. If it were truly the environmentalists why didn't they go after manufacturers of spray paint first which actually goes into the air when sprayed.
Also why hasn't Flovent gone generic yet? It's been out for years and years and it's still almost $200 for one.
36 year old female - have had asthma since I was 13.

37 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-07 16:50:47

Answer/Reply:

The only way that the new inhalers will work effectively is to use the spacer. And spacers now come in a smaller pocket size so they're easier to carry and exercise with. You should still see your doctor, or just call his nurse and ask her questions in order to save a copay! But I think they'll suggest a spacer. The medication seems to get to you better (or at least more of it) and I use it when I go with the dog to the park. (The dog walks me so it's like I'm running!) See if you can get a spacer and let us know how it works for you.

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-22 12:09:23

Answer/Reply:

i am on the nebulizer form of albuterol and in fact albuterol of any kind never works to stop any of my attacks and in fact the only things that do help is when the emergency room gives me oxygen and i have to use my cpap machine at home

i am thinking to buy scuba tanks and compressors to have oxygen available when not in a place to plug in a cpap machine since medical oxygen takes a prescription and doctors where i live only write more prescriptions for albuterol even after i have told them at least a million times that it does not work at all

since doctors do not want to find a different medicine that will work to stop my asthma attacks then i need to treat myself

33 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-22 17:03:58

Answer/Reply:

I also believe that you should ask your doctor about Advair. I am on the lowest dose and it really works wonders. I hardly ever have to use my rescue inhaler, which is the ProAir, but when I do it gives me instant relief. If you are having problems like this your asthma is not under control. I really wouldn't push it too long without seeing the pulmanologist because with every attack you risk scarring your lungs. I wish you the best!

30 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-24 02:54:28

Answer/Reply:

dear 57 yr old male, i was born with asthma & i too have had a few problems with the new inhalers..still working on it..But pro air seems to be the best for me as well for the time being..In light to your question?how can u overcome this struggle??They make nebulizer machines,for asthma patients and they also have albuterol liquid that comes with the machine perscribed of course,but the doctor that is providing your care might be able to shedd some light as to if this kind of method would really work or be a better alternative for you and with great hope that you might somehow regain your love of running..& most importantly you will be able to breathe great cleansing breaths again..good luck and stay healthy..42 yr old female

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-27 00:43:29

Answer/Reply:

I've had Asthma all my life, and was absolutely devastated when Albuterol CFC was discontinued. That was the best inhaler ever made..! That ProAir "stuff" is nothing but junk & a waste of time. So, I use my nebulizer with one vial of 2.5mg Albuterol Sulfate, and I'm doing fine, and once per month...! So, 57 year old male...consider the nebulizer and I hope it works well for you as it has for me.

Breathing well (Female) "Thank you God..."

61 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-31 16:21:15

Answer/Reply:

My 2 children and husband were all on Albuterol. Now on the ProAir. It doesn't work for any of them. I also used to pay a $10.00 copay with my insurance and now the copay is 38.00. I think it is a crime what the drug AND insurance companies are able to get away with.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-01 14:07:14

Answer/Reply:

I too found that albuteral was able to allow better breathing. If there is something comparable out there please share...Haven't been breathing so well since it was taken away.

43 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 10:43:29

Answer/Reply:

I took theophylline twice daily for 20 years. It made me severely Vitamin B deficient. Now I take QBC Plex (two pills 3 x daily), an alternative medicine from The Granary with no side effects. That combined with Advair controls my asthma symptoms very well, except for weather changes and sudden allergy attacks. I keep Benadryl caps and my ProAir with me always just for those occassions. Olive Leaf Extract and Garlic taken daily helps control sinus problems and viral and bacterial infections, two major causes of asthma episodes. Haven't taken theophylline since November of 2008. In the past, three days without theophylline meant a trip to the ER. Not anymore. Now I'm not jittery or suffer from heart palpitations. Maybe these products will work for you too.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-02 15:00:40

Answer/Reply:

I agree with this 100%. Plus, it tastes bad. I have heard some mention about getting the "old" Albuterol inhalers in Canada, which I am looking into. This is my health we're talking about here, and asthma is no laughing matter. I'll get the meds that work, no matter where I have to get them. Advair helps, but when you need a rescue inhaler, ProAir drops the ball.

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-03 15:12:59

Answer/Reply:

I also have had nothing but problems with Pro Air. It's a wonder how millions of Americans don't need to breathe, but the ozone layer will be safer when we've been worried about that since the 70's?! Proventil, (blue) does seem to work a little better, only the prices for our meds have now doubled and my insurance does not cover it. I have had asthma since birth and sought a lung specialist this year. He said, the problem with the Pro Air is that we are used to using the albuterol, which had a propellant to push the med straight into the lungs. We've all been told to take two puffs all these years. Now, this med doesn't reach the lungs as deep. Take one puff, wait a minute or two, then another. Either way, I don't see much help, I can hardly get up the stairs either. And I am sooo tired of pharmacists and doctors who don't know what they're talking about when we tell them it's NOT the same medicine! The Pro Air is also a smaller bottle, less days on the prescription (27) and twice the price! When most plans cover us for every 30 days, are we supposed to not breathe for 3-4 days per month?
As far as the Advair, PLEASE be careful. I was on it by orders from some moron who called himself a doctor, and it was a miracle med. The first time in my life I felt I had NO asthma! Then try to come off of it. I not only lost my singing voice (my second job) with laryngitis for a year and a half while I was taking it, but I had terrible side effects and now have the worst asthma that I have ever have in my life. I need steroids once in a while just to get my lungs open. I didn't know it was the meds until I talked to other who had the same problems. The FDA warned about Advair, Serevent, and Foradil last year that we needed to be warned they may "increase the risk of severe asthma attacks and even death" (Southtown Economist) they wanted the "makers to strengthen warning labels to reflect this risk"! I don't know about anyone else, but being used to asthma since birth, I highly doubt I would have taken any drug if I was told I may die and I certainly don't see stronger warnings. I DO see doctor's who will per scribe any new 'quick fix' to any patient that walks in, whether they have severe or mild symptoms. God Bless us all.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-04 21:31:01

Answer/Reply:

I too have suffered with Asthma, in and out of hospital for years.I went to a great allergist Dr. Friedman in Baltimore, Md. I take Spivera 1x a day, Pulmicort and Floridel 2x day, occacionaly I still needed my Albuterol and it worked great. With the ProAir it takes several puffs and never really have any comfort in breathing till my next dose of Pumicort and Floridel. Doesn't environmentalist have anything better to do or just make asthmatics miserable.
Melody
female 55

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-10 19:53:12

Answer/Reply:

Try using Xoponex inhaler. I can use albuterol rescue inhalers once or twice a day but more than that it makes me shaky and have heart palpitations but Xoponex does not have those side effects on me. It is much more expensive.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 14:09:19

Answer/Reply:

Are you taking it as directed? If you use too much, it can make your heart seem to beat faster and give you the shakes. I would contact your doctor regarding this.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-16 14:44:24

Answer/Reply:

I also have enviromental allergies which I have to have a shot every week for, I have also been taking singular, I know tilade is a steriod, which I will not take anymore. I do take other medications for diabetes, CIFIDS very severe /CIFIDS.com to hard to explain so I will look that pill up I sometimes do not pay as much attention to my asthma as I should, I have had a yeast infection in my throat to long, that is the first time I have heard someelse speak of it , The ENT doctor just ignors the complaints for the last at least three years or more he says everyone has alot of mucus not like mine don't mean to be gross but it is hacking and coughing all the time
trying not to gag on it, time to find a new ent dr. anyway singular does nothing for me, the inhalers
I just use as a rescue know wonder my asthma is so Bad but, anyone takings nasal spray all I can say if you like your teeth make sure your not using one that is a steriod,

52 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-27 15:38:50

Answer/Reply:

Hi My Name is Susan. I am having the same problem with The Albuterol HFA. I Know that they did it for the envirnoment(THE FDA FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION) But, I have worked in the medical field for yrs. in the past and I know that ALOT of People are going through the same problem as you & I. I don't know why?; Just for the Envirnoment, that they would do this? When a Drug Works For Millions! Just for the Envirnment, yes, the envirnment is very Important! But, THE PEOPLE COME & SHOULD COME FIRST! All I Can Say Is if enough of us get together maybe we can over turn their decision and go back to the ALBUTEROL SULFATE LIQUID INHALER! THIS ONE IS A POWDER. THE HFA INHALER. TRY CALLING YOUR FDA. CRACK DOWN ON THEM IN A NICE BUT FIRM WAY! & :PLEASE PASS THIS TO OTHER'S YOU KNOW!

GOOD LUCK! :) YOU CAN ALWAY'S REACH ME ON MY E-MAIL AT...Susan94799@aol.com YOUR FRIEND,
Susan XOXO....<3

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 09:43:44

Answer/Reply:

I was having the same problem.....but my pharmiscist switched me to a different company that continues to use the albuterol sulfate inhaler as I used before..liquird instead of powder....this one is Ventolin, but is still albuterol...she said it is the same thing.........just a different company........try that......it is not all doing it for the environment......they just don't tell you it was one individual company that did it for the environment.......advair is still the same...in the disk form....but has always been powder......the hand held inhaler I used was liq. then they changed to ProAir HFA.....like I said I complained and complained that it did not work for me....so my pharmacist changed me to ventolin which is the Albuterol Sulfate....the exact same thing......and this works just fine....I hope it works for all.............just ask for the ventolin instead of by name Albuterol...it is the same thing......

63 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-23 12:50:44

Answer/Reply:

Just what is it that they are treating you for.? I would find that out first then I would see a different doctor and get another opinion on the situation at hand

50 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-04 11:58:14

Answer/Reply:

I also use an Albuterol inhaler and agree that the new formula does not work as well. You also have to use it more often.

39 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 13:09:37

Answer/Reply:

I feel for you having to take all those breathing meds. I have COPD and have been on oxygen for 3 years. I was taking advair until I finally found out that it was causing a lot of coughing and bruises on my hands (they are almost black on the back of my hands). I quit about a week ago, cough is much better and my hands seem to be clearing up. I use combivent as a rescue inhaler, it really helps, and I use albuterol in the nebulizer. It does not seem to help too much. I tried DuoNeb as a nebulizer because it has the same ingreatents as the Combivent. But, for some reasion it made my BP drop too much i.e. from 130/80 to 87/59 and caused my heart to race ,120 beats per min. You have to really be careful with the meds. Nearly every thing I have tried has had by si9de effects.

78 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-05 15:32:04

Answer/Reply:

Ask your doctor about Symbicort- this is a daily preventive inhaler. This one has controlled both my husbands and my asthma attacks and use less of our rescue inhalers. Yes, flovent and proventil are both pretty much the same thing. The abuterol, is your rescue. As is your abuterol for your nebulizer but works more effectively. I have xopenex inhaler and use xopenex and ipatropian bromide (duo neb) for my nebulizer- but use on very rare occassions.

41 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 15:52:52

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I THINK ALBBUETEROL IS A GOOD ASTHMA TREATMENT PLAN,BASED ON PAST EXPERIENCE

Posted: 2009-03-05 16:59:39

Answer/Reply:

I wish I had some ideas, because I feel the same way. Once I changed over to the new albuterol ozone safe inhaler I've been using it as much as twice a day! I talked to my doctor who SWORE there was no difference, but I'm telling you there is. I used to only take it once in a while. The two inhalers I have that should have lasted me a year are almost completely used up in less than a month!!! So, I feel your pain!

36 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:18:24

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I stopped using all those things (Proventil, Albuterol, etc) (gradually) and now I just drink herbal teas, ("Breatheasy" when I feel like I am having difficulty breathing ) and I also drink; " Cold care tea" when I feel a cold coming on, and when I have great difficulty I drink, " Yogi's DEEP Breath Tea". And I find I am doing a lot more ad withotu breathing difficulties! I also got one of those mattress covers (that protect you from Mites in yoir bed and it ahs helped me sleep better, not geting all ongested becasue fo theirritants), and changing my bed sheets every two weeks and using an air purifier in my bedrom at night (with a vaporizer, in the winter only). I am finding I am breathing better. I was so bad the Dr said I had sleep apea, but now my oxygen levels are at 97 and I have not had a breathing difficulties, no asthma attacks or any difficulty breathing at night since 2007. At night I found that sucking on a Vitamin C drop or cough drop. helps keeping the mouth shut so no germs get into the lungs, plus helps keep the muscles in the throat relaxed. Also what helps is making it a habit to brush my teeth before I go to bed, for that alone will eliminate a lot of breathing problems (believe it or not) . I have not been sick since 2007, not a single breathing problem since I been practicing all these habits; and drinking these teas (only when feel the need to). Hope this helps you. I also keep my nose clean with a Q-tip before I go to bed and when ever I feel a bit congested for a congested nose casues germs to build up in the nose and you draw the toxins and egrms into the lungs when yur nose is filled. I keep where I sleep very clean and also the bathroom; washing the hands also all the times and especially as soon as I come into the hsoue from the outside, for that can eliminate a lot of germs and toxins from coming indoor! Because believe it or not toxins and germs cause the breathing problems. Keeping clean is foremost for me and I find that eliminates a lot of toxins and irritants in my house. I don't use any OIL room deordorizers and hardly ever use perfume, for those is why many have breathing problems and dotn know it. No hair spray or any sprays if I can help it, for you will find those cause a lot of lung problems. I eliminated many! Even those Glade air wicks, for they are OILS that are being spreayed into the air in yoru hosue Yoru better off boiling cinnamon! Hope this helps you. The teas help a lot and actually help HEAL the lungs for if your not eating well, or have weak glands, your immune system is affected and why your having difficulty with breathing in the first place. Get healthy and you will find you will have less breathing problems. Eliminate the fats in your diet for they are why many people get sick too! Good luck! susan

Posted: 2009-03-06 10:40:42

Answer/Reply:

Do you see a Pulmonologist? I have found in my experience that a general practitioner is not capable of developing a good action plan for asthma like a pulmonologist would. Have they given you breathing tests and a peak floe meter to access how bad your asthma is? Proventil, Albuterol by inhaler and nebulizer are all bronchodilators. Even Advair has a long acting bronchodilator in it. Seems like you are on way too many bronchodilators. If you need that many, you should have a specialist review your plan of care. You could have a rebound effect if you take too many bronchodilators, meaning it can worsen your asthma. How much Flovent do you take? The maximun is a total of 8 puffs (220mcg). I would maximize your inhaled steroid and use a different long acting bronchodilator like Floridil or Serevent to replace the Advair. Advair also has an anti-inflammatory drug in it like Flovent, but you can't increase the amount of Adavir you take due to the long acting bronchodilator in it. Singulair ( a pill) is also an option. It does not just treat allergies, but also asthma as well. I hope this helps.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 10:53:03

Answer/Reply:

i would like to add I have had asthma since i was 8 yrs old i am 37 now i have tried almost every inhaler know to man and nothing and i do mean NOTHING but cfc albuterol inhalers work for me i am allregic(?) to advair flovent and those types and these new hfa inhalers DO NOT work and are killng people i know of a website where you can sign a petition and you can also go to consumer affairs and read the complaints there and also sign a petition we have to get this turned around before more people die here is the web address www.saveCFCinhalers.org i have another one some where i will find it when i get off i have an interview with the local news station here so i am printing off everything i can find my e-mail is kellyburell@bellsouth .net feel free to contact me i am no dr just a regular person with serious concerns thank you Kelly

38 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-06 14:20:10

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Advair is a combination of asthma medications and contains salmeterol (Serevent) and fluticasone (Flovent). Advair is used as a long-term treatment and should be used as your doctor directed to maintain the health of your airways to prevent asthma attacks. Since Flovent is one of the active ingredients in your Advair inhaler, you may want to ask your doctor if you are suppose to be on both the Advair and the Flovent inhalers.

Typically, Proventil, which is a brand name for albuterol is used to treat asthma symptoms or an “attack”. Most patients use the inhaler form of albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin) but some patients also have the nebulizer form to treat severe symptoms. It is a good idea to follow up with your doctor if you find yourself having more severe or more frequent asthma symptoms and need to use more of the albuterol treatments (inhaler or nebulizer) - your doctor may want to adjust your long-term asthma medication to help prevent your symptoms.

There have been many complaints about the new environmental friendly HFA inhalers. The propulsion method of the new inhaler is slightly different so it is normal for the inhalation process to feel different than the old form of inhalers. Each inhaler has specific instructions - be sure to follow the directions included in the packaging and make sure you are using the inhaler correctly. If they are still not working well for you, please follow up with your doctor. He or she may need to adjust your medications – some patients respond better to different brands of albuterol inhalers.

Posted: 2009-03-08 23:48:20

Answer/Reply:

Wow, great to see it's not just me. These new inhalers don't work!! I don't know what to do but I go through them very quick.

34 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-12 23:38:54

Answer/Reply:

Hi my name is MELISSA. I started taking NEW CHAPTER BREATHE and after taking it for two months, I only need my inhaler about once per month - and that is when I'm playing tennis indoors (the ball fuzz seems to stay in those tennis barns and aggravate my lungs).

The formula, a whole food formula, was formulated to help increase the lung capacity of long-distance runners. Many world-class athletes use it, so I thought it wouldn't hurt to give it a shot. My, what a difference!!!

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-15 15:31:12

Answer/Reply:

When you use all those meds your provider is looking for the right combination and dosage. Waste no time in letting them know what isn't working so they can adjust the dose. Once that happends, you'll see a significant reduction in the number of meds you're taking.

64 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-19 17:21:15

Answer/Reply:

I thought it was just me. I find that the new formulation does not work as well as before. I also thought it was because Albuterol was trying to eliminate the generics, which it did for a while. Advair helps but I still use Albuterol too much. I have also noticed the weight gain and have been unable to loose it.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 18:06:45

Answer/Reply:

I, also, am having the same problem. Ever since they took the aeorosol out of it I do not feel I am getting the proper dose when I inhale. I feel as if I have to take more inhalations per day also. My pharmacist told me that it is giving me the same amount as before but it feels different bc there is no more aerosol in it. I do not feel that way about it. I don't feel as if I am benefiting from it as I was before. I wish they had not changed the formula for these inhalers. I also know of many other people who are having the same problem.

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 23:42:25

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Same, I got a refill with the new propellent and It dosent work nearly as well, I have to take multiple hits just to feel like anything has come out, I still have an old inhaler, I used to compare and the old one works with one shot and works within 20 sec's for me , the new one just seems dead, I cannot believe our liitle inhalers will destroy the ozone in the world come on, its like the "cow farts cause global warming" argument. (and they put out some gas lol)

Posted: 2009-02-19 14:27:57

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking QVAR for 4 years and would agree that the new stuff didn't seem to be working as well, same with albuteral! I used to use a spacer, recommended by my asthma specialist, but decided to try the RX without the spacer and it seems to be better. If anyone else knows other suggestions please share!

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-20 22:40:25

Answer/Reply:

I have been on the Proventil HFA for 3 years now and I find it works alot better. For years since I was a baby the doctors tried to figure out what was wrong with the inhalers. It turned out that I am allergic to the CFC's which are in them. So I feel alot better now and have no side effects.

Female, 27

27 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-24 00:45:00

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

My sister uses an Albuterol inhaler and she says their is a difference in the inhalers.The new one leaves a real sweet taste in her mouth after she uses it.

Posted: 2009-01-16 16:06:25

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I was told the same. I received the new Albuterol substitute as a sample to try. I experience tremor and restlessness when I use any steroid medication. I can no longer use Advair because I am unable to sleep when using it. I have started using Alvesco Inhalation Aerosol, 160 mcg per actuation, 2 puffs 2x a day to prevent attacks for last 6 days. Hope to get improvement.

Posted: 2009-01-18 21:23:14

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

PRO AIR
YES THAT US WHAT I HAD BEEN TOLD. I COULD NO LONGER BUY ALBUTAROL

Posted: 2009-01-20 15:53:31

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I also was on Albuterol & was switched to ProAir. It is costing me $20.00 more than I paid for Albuterol. I don't find any differance between the two. I am using it 2 - 3 times a day. During a recent attack, I went to the Dr.'s office and he had be take 2 puffs of Proventil. Within 5 minutes my breathing was much better.

Posted: 2009-03-11 14:26:28

Answer/Reply:

That is great that they want to save the enviroment but I'm wondering if that is the only reason they have done this. I, too, was on the albuterol inhaler and was told they had no choice but to switch me to the proventil hfa. It does not work as well for me number one and my biggest complaint, there is no generic for it like there was for the albuterol. My copay is 5 times what I used to pay. I'm wondering if the drug company had a hand in this transition since it's putting more money in their pockets due to no generics!

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 17:54:31

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

DO YOU ALL HAVE SAMPLES OF ALBUTEROL ASTHMA PUMPS

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:01:51

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I also take Advair for asthma and I rarely need to use my Albuterol inhaler. I have used other maintenance medications however I start to get short of breath with anything other than Advair.

Posted: 2009-01-06 11:18:20

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I also take Advair for asthma and I rarely need to use my Albuterol inhaler. I have used other maintenance medications however I start to get short of breath with anything other than Advair.
49 year old female

Posted: 2009-01-06 11:21:23

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Thousands of patients KNOW that HFA inhalers are not as safe and effective as CFC inhalers. While most patients may be able to handle HFA inhalers (or MDIs), many can’t tolerate them, and are finding them terribly ineffective. Even MDs, PhDs, RNs etc., are seeing the differences.
I cannot tolerate the HFA inhaler and it actually made my asthma worse. I fear that others who have been switched to HFA propelled inhalers are having increased asthma symptoms, and may not even realize that it may be because of the re-formulated inhaler.
I want to help spread the word that many people are finding these new inhalers seriously inferior. There is a petition that I’d like to make asthma patients and those who care about them, or care for them, aware of. If you could help by spreading the word in your asthma community, that would be wonderful.
To get the FACTS and help us FIGHT to save CFC MDIs:
Go here: www.savecfcinhalers.org
Or here: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/saveCFCinhalers/
Or just Google: ‘save cfc’
Cheri Modrow The National Campaign to Save CFC Asthma Inhalers

Posted: 2008-12-20 12:35:26

Answer/Reply:

The reflux is because your asthma is not under control, and then it makes the asthma worse. Make sure you mention it to your doctor because the more reflux you get, the more it aggravates the asthma, which aggravates the reflux...

30 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-23 22:53:50

Answer/Reply:

Can't be... my heart rate goes down, to the dismay of my allergist - I was tested in the office - and I still shake in my arms, fingers, and voice box. Maybe I am the only weird one that has this odd combo though.

30 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-23 22:48:17

Answer/Reply:

Oh my!
I have used Albuterol for a long time, with no complaints. My painful night leg cramps have been attributed to multiple sclerosis. Not long ago, I began taking zanflex occasionally to help, with good results. I never knew of any connection between Albuterol and leg cramps. Today I read of a caution between Albuterol and Zanflex.
It must be time for a medication review with my physicians.
~S~

52 year old Female

Posted: 2008-09-24 12:55:02

Answer/Reply:

I've had RLS most of my life, although it wasn't recognized as such until just a few years ago. I tried Requip which only made the condition worse and my doctor started me on Mirapex. The Mirapex stopped the cramps, restlessness and pain from the RLS in its tracks. Recently though, the cramps and "uneasiness" in my legs have returned with a vengeance. I hadn't associated this with Albuterol ( using an Albuterol Inhaler since 11/5, every 4 hours as needed) until your post. Do you use a nebulizer or an inhaler? Also, do you suffer from COPD, Emphysema or another disorder? I have mild emphysema and was hoping for good relief of shortness of breath with the Albuterol combined with Spiriva but now I'm not too sure I should be using both.

70 year old Female

Posted: 2008-11-19 21:01:55

Answer/Reply:

Get more potassium (ie bananas) and calcium (ie dairy) in your diet and exercise regularly with proper stretching /cool down afterwards.

30 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-23 22:50:28