7 answers

Questions About My Son's New Prescription

My oldest son's had his annual check-up today, and I mentioned to the doc that I needed a new prescription for his asthma inhaler because he just ran out of refills. Instead of prescribing albuterol, he gave me a script for a new medicine called "Pro Air." I've done some looking on the web about this new med that is susposed to replace albuterol inhalers (because of the CFC's in the inhaler) and none of what I have read has been good. Most everything I have come across has cited that the Pro Air is more expensive and less effective than the standard inhalers.

So, pretty much, my question is, do any of you have children (or loved ones) that have made the switch to Pro Air. Is it as bad as it is seeming to me? His current albuterol inhaler will last another month or 2, but I would like to know what to really expect when he makes the switch to the new one.

What can I do next?

More Answers

I work in a pharmacy and I can tell you that there are a few different brands of albuterol inhaler out there and if he doesn't like the ProAir kind, you could ask your pharmacist to get you another type, like Ventolin or something. There may be one out there that tastes better.

It has been a while since I worked in a retail setting, so I don't know enough about cost to help you there. Your insurance may restrict you to using just one kind of inhaler, but it wouldn't hurt to ask your pharmacist about trying a different one.

ASk the doc that prescribed it and he/she can tell you more about it. It could also be changed to something you feel more comfortable taking. The nurse can even answer you Q's about it if you dont have time to wait for a return call from a doc. I can guarantee he/she wont just pick up the phone because a patient has called. They call back.

Hi, I have never heard of it and my youngest daughter takes albuterol due to her having cystic Fibrosis so something tells me that her Pulmo doctor doesn't want her on the Pro Air. Talk to the dr ask them to change it back to albuterol.

Mandie~

Sorry hon, have never heard of it. However if you are ever uncomfortable giving your child something even when prescribed by your doctor...I feel you should say so. My son (17) and I both have asthma, and our doctor wanted to put him on steriods. I don't like them in any way, shape, or form and talked to my doctor about it. He decided to go a different route that we both were comfortable with. Just because they have that certificate, doesn't make them invinsible. I say...speak your mind. You'll feel better!! Good luck!

You could also talk to your pharmasit they have a wealth of information and can answer most of your questions. They would also know your sons history and what other meds he may take and are sometimes help you more than the doc. I hope this helps good luck.

I have asthma as well and when I switched from albuterol to Pro Air, I had the shakes and stuttering. So I quit using it and my doctor has since put me back on albuterol and she said when they get rid of the albuterol inhaler we will think of something else then. Hope that helps and good luck

I too have 2 children with asthma and all I can say is that they are going to be switched over to the new inhalers as the old albuterol inhalers are no longer in production. It's not like we have much of a choice. Since you still have the old inhaler buy the new one and see how effectve it is. If it doesn't work as well you can always switch to the old one and inform the doctor that the new one isn't as effective and see if he can prescribe something else.

Good Luck....we're in the same boat on this one.
K.

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