Generic Albuterol HFA Inhalers
On January 15, 2019, GSK announced the availability of the first authorized generic Albuterol Sulfate HFA inhaler. This inhaler is the authorized generic for GSK’s Ventolin HFA® and will continue to be manufactured by GSK and distributed by Prasco Laboratories, LLC.
- NDC 66993-0019-68: 18-g canister, 200 actuations (puffs)
As the authorized generic, it is only a substitute for Ventolin HFA®. Other albuterol HFA inhalers, including Proventil HFA® and ProAir HFA®, continue to be BX-rated and not considered equivalent.
Not to be outdone, on January 17th, 2019, Teva launched an authorized generic. This inhaler is the authorized generic for Teva Respiratory’s ProAir HFA® and will be manufactured by IVAX Pharmaceuticals (IVAX was acquired by Teva in 2006) and marketed by Teva.
- NDC 00093-3174-31: 8.5-g canister, 200 actuations (puffs)
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- Prasco Albuterol HFA CAN only be substituted for Ventolin HFA®.
- Prasco Albuterol HFA CANNOT be substituted for Proventil HFA® or ProAir HFA®.
- Teva/IVAX Albuterol HFA CAN only be substituted for ProAir HFA®.
- Teva Albuterol HFA CANNOT be substituted for Proventil HFA® or Ventolin HFA®.
- Teva Albuterol HFA CANNOT be substituted for ProAir RespiClick® or ProAir Digihaler®.
- Prescriptions written for Albuterol HFA can be dispensed with whichever product is clinically appropriate or preferred on plan formulary.
- Reminder: the three brand name products are NOT substitutable and require prescriber authorization and documentation (e.g. prescription written for ProAir HFA®, but insurance prefers Ventolin HFA®).
