Generic Proair Inhaler

Introduction

ProAir Inhaler is a press‑air‑driven metered‑dose inhaler (MDI) that delivers the short‑acting β₂‑adrenergic agonist (SABA) salbutamol (also known as albuterol). The inhaler is indicated for rapid relief of bronchospasm in asthma and exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction. In Hong Kong, salbutamol‑containing inhalers are listed under the Hong Kong Department of Health’s “Emergency Relief” medicines, making them readily prescribed in primary‑care and emergency settings. The device provides quick onset of action, typically within minutes, allowing patients to regain breathing capacity during an acute episode.

What is ProAir Inhaler?

ProAir Inhaler is a metered‑dose inhaler that contains 100 µg of salbutamol sulfate per actuation. The product is manufactured by Teva Respiratory (formerly by Merck & Co.) and conforms to the United States Pharmacopoeia (USP) standards for dosage uniformity and aerosol performance. Although the brand name “ProAir” is recognized internationally, the same active ingredient is marketed under other well‑known brand names such as Ventolin, AccuNeb, and Salamol. Our online pharmacy offers the generic version of this inhaler, providing the identical pharmacological effect at a substantially lower price point.

How ProAir Inhaler Works

Salbutamol is a selective agonist of the β₂‑adrenergic receptors located on bronchial smooth muscle. Binding triggers a cascade that increases intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), leading to relaxation of the smooth muscle fibers and dilation of the airways. The rapid bronchodilation reduces airway resistance and improves airflow within 5–15 minutes after inhalation. The drug is absorbed through the pulmonary epithelium, reaching peak plasma concentrations in approximately 30 minutes, and is largely eliminated via renal excretion as unchanged drug or glucuronide metabolites. The short half‑life (3–4 hours) underpins its role as a rescue medication rather than a maintenance therapy.

Conditions Treated with ProAir Inhaler

• Acute asthma exacerbations – Salbutamol reverses bronchospasm caused by inflammatory mediators, providing immediate symptom relief. Asthma prevalence in Hong Kong is estimated at 13 % of adults, with a growing burden due to urban air pollution.
• Exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) – ProAir is taken 15 minutes before physical activity to prevent airway narrowing that commonly occurs in athletes and active adults.
• Occasional dyspnoea due to reversible airway obstruction – In clinical practice, physicians may prescribe a single inhalation for transient wheeze related to viral upper‑respiratory infections, provided the underlying cause is non‑chronic.

The drug does not modify the underlying inflammatory process of asthma; therefore, it is used in conjunction with inhaled corticosteroids or other controller medications for long‑term disease management.

Who is ProAir Inhaler For?

• Adults with intermittent or mild persistent asthma who experience symptoms less than twice a week and require a quick‑acting bronchodilator for rescue.
• Individuals engaged in regular vigorous exercise who have documented EIB on provocation testing.
• Patients who have demonstrated a prompt response to SABA therapy and have no contraindication to β₂‑agonists.

Contra‑indications include a known hypersensitivity to salbutamol, any component of the inhaler propellant (HFA‑134a), or a history of paradoxical bronchospasm after SABA use. Caution is warranted in patients with severe cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, or in those receiving non‑selective β‑blockers, as β₂‑agonist effects may be attenuated or cause adverse cardiac events.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Tremor (especially of the hands)
• Palpitation or tachycardia
• Headache
• Throat irritation or cough after inhalation
• Mild nausea

These effects are usually transient, dose‑related, and diminish with proper inhalation technique.

Rare

• Hypokalemia (low blood potassium) – more likely with high‑dose or frequent use.
• Hyperglycaemia – can exacerbate diabetes control in susceptible individuals.
• Paradoxical bronchospasm – an acute worsening of airway obstruction after inhalation.

Patients experiencing rare events should seek medical review promptly.

Serious

• Cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., supraventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation)
• Severe hypotension or hypertensive crisis in patients with underlying cardiovascular instability
• Anaphylactic reaction (urticaria, angio‑edema, airway compromise)

Any serious symptom warrants immediate emergency care.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• Non‑selective β‑blockers (e.g., propranolol) may blunt bronchodilator response and increase risk of bronchospasm.
• Diuretics (especially loop diuretics) can potentiate hypokalemia when combined with frequent salbutamol use.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may enhance cardiovascular stimulation.
• Theophylline – concurrent use may increase risk of central nervous system stimulation (tremor, seizures).

Patients should disclose all current medications to their healthcare provider before initiating ProAir therapy.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dose for acute relief: 1–2 inhalations (100 µg each) every 4–6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 8 inhalations (800 µg) within 24 hours.
• Exercise‑induced bronchoconstriction: 1–2 inhalations taken 15 minutes before activity; repeat if symptoms develop during exercise, not exceeding the daily maximum.
• Missed dose: Because ProAir is a rescue inhaler, a missed dose has no therapeutic consequence; administer a dose only when symptoms appear.
• Overdose: Ingesting more than the recommended maximum may cause pronounced tachycardia, severe tremor, hypokalemia, or cardiac arrhythmia. If overdose is suspected, seek urgent medical attention; supportive care may include intravenous fluids, potassium supplementation, and cardiac monitoring.

Precautions:

• Avoid smoking or exposure to second‑hand smoke while using the inhaler, as combustion products can irritate the airway.
• Alcohol does not directly interfere with salbutamol, but excessive consumption may exacerbate tachycardia.
• Patients with liver or renal impairment should use the lowest effective dose and monitor for systemic side effects.

Buying ProAir Inhaler from Our Online Pharmacy

Patients in Hong Kong can obtain ProAir Inhaler through our online pharmacy. The service offers several advantages:

• Cost‑effective pricing – we source the generic product at near‑manufacturer cost, passing savings to the consumer.
• Verified quality – all inhalers originate from licensed manufacturers that comply with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and are inspected by independent third‑party laboratories.
• Reliable delivery – discreet packaging is dispatched via express courier (typically 7 days) or regular airmail (approximately 3 weeks), with tracking available for every order.
• International medication access – as a pharmacy‑broker service, we collaborate with overseas licensed pharmacies, enabling patients to receive products that may not be stocked in local retail outlets.

Our platform respects patient privacy, offering a confidential ordering experience that does not require disclosure of personal health details beyond regulatory compliance.

FAQ

• Can ProAir Inhaler be used by people with mild hypertension?
  Yes, mild hypertension is not a contraindication. However, patients should monitor blood pressure after use, as β₂‑agonists can cause a temporary increase in heart rate and systolic pressure.

• Is there a difference between the HFA propellant used in ProAir and older CFC inhalers?
  The hydrofluoroalkane (HFA‑134a) propellant in ProAir is environmentally safer than chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants and provides a finer aerosol plume, which can improve drug deposition in the lower airways.

• What is the recommended storage temperature for ProAir Inhaler?
  Store the inhaler at controlled room temperature, between 15 °C and 30 °C (59 °F‑86 °F). Avoid exposure to excessive heat, such as a car dashboard, or freezing conditions.

• Does traveling abroad affect the legality of importing ProAir Inhaler into Hong Kong?
  Personal import of up to 30 days’ supply for personal use is permitted under Hong Kong customs regulations, provided the product is for a legitimate therapeutic purpose and is accompanied by a copy of the prescription or physician’s letter.

• Are there any known differences in formulation between ProAir sold in the United States and Asia?
  The active ingredient (salbutamol sulfate) and the HFA propellant are identical worldwide. In some Asian markets, the inhaler may contain additional excipients such as ethanol to stabilize the formulation, but these do not affect clinical efficacy.

• How long does a ProAir Inhaler remain effective after opening?
  Once the device is primed, it retains potency for up to 12 months, provided it is stored correctly and the dose counter indicates remaining actuations. The inhaler should be discarded after the labeled expiration date.

• Can ProAir Inhaler cause a false positive on drug‑screening tests?
  Salbutamol is not listed as a prohibited substance in standard occupational drug‑screening panels. However, athletes subject to WADA testing should disclose therapeutic use, as high urinary concentrations may be flagged in specific anti‑doping assays.

• Is it safe to use a spacer device with ProAir Inhaler?
  Yes, using a valved holding chamber or spacer can reduce oropharyngeal deposition and improve lung delivery, especially for patients with coordination difficulties. Ensure the spacer is compatible with HFA inhalers.

• What are the environmental considerations for discarding an empty ProAir inhaler?
  The device contains a small amount of HFA propellant; therefore, it should be recycled through pharmacy take‑back programs or returned to a designated hazardous‑waste collection point rather than placed in regular household waste.

• Does ProAir Inhaler have any effect on blood glucose levels?
  Systemic absorption of salbutamol can cause mild hyperglycaemia, particularly in patients with diabetes who use the inhaler frequently. Monitoring blood glucose after repeated dosing is advisable.

Glossary

β₂‑adrenergic receptor

A protein on airway smooth‑muscle cells that, when stimulated by agents like salbutamol, triggers relaxation and bronchodilation.

Metred‑dose inhaler (MDI)

A portable device that releases a precisely measured amount of medication as an aerosol spray for inhalation.

Paradoxical bronchospasm

An unexpected tightening of the airway that occurs immediately after inhalation of a bronchodilator, requiring prompt medical evaluation.

Hypokalemia

A condition of reduced potassium levels in the blood, which can be precipitated by high doses of β₂‑agonists and may lead to muscle weakness or cardiac arrhythmias.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about ProAir Inhaler is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to ProAir Inhaler for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.