Your Trusted Asthma Inhaler Is Being Discontinued: What You Need to Know

Medically reviewed by Karyi Coyle, MD

As of January 1 the manufacturer of widely used asthma inhaler Flovent, has discontinued its branded versions in the United States. This decision has raised concerns among healthcare professionals and patients alike.

The good news is Flovent is simply the brand name of the medication fluticasone, which will continue to be available in its generic form.

Fluticasone is in a class of medications called inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and there are multiple alternative ICS drugs available in different formulations.

So, for many patients who use one ICS for asthma relief, a switch to another ICS – after consultation with a qualified physician – can work well.

The bad news is that some insurance companies may not cover the cost of fluticasone.

The bottom line: While a trusted name in asthma care has gone away, there are medications with similar formulations that should provide asthma sufferers with relief they seek.

As every person and their needs differs, we encourage everyone to seek a consultation with your asthma specialist – and your insurance carrier – to discuss the medication options that work best for you.

If you have questions, need more information or wish to make an appointment with a specialist, reach out to the Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine specialists of WMCHealth Physicians at 914.493.7518 or Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Bon Secours Medical Group at 845.353.5600.