April 10, 2024
Teva Pharmaceuticals is discontinuing its series of digital inhalers starting June 1, 2024, Allergy & Asthma Network has learned.
Teva’s digital inhalers include:
- ProAir® Digihaler® (albuterol sulfate) inhalation powder
- ArmonAir® Digihaler® (fluticasone propionate) inhalation powder
- AirDuo® Digihaler® (fluticasone propionate and salmeterol) inhalation powder
People who are currently using Digihaler inhalers can continue using them as prescribed until their expiration date. Software and technical support for the apps will end on June 1, 2024.
“We are disappointed that these treatment options will no longer be available to those who have been using them and have found them to be a way to control their asthma with the use of an inhaler that combines medication and digital technology,” Allergy & Asthma Network CEO Lynda Mitchell told Allergic Living.
Teva launched its first digital inhaler, the ProAir Digihaler, in 2019. Digital inhalers have built-in sensors that detect when the inhaler is used. They measure breathing flow and other indicators of asthma control. The devices send data to the companion app that can then be shared with healthcare providers.
What do patients need to know?
Asthma patients who use a Digihaler device should talk with their doctor about alternatives. Inhalers containing the same medications are available. However, patients who use the digital component of the Digihalers may not be able to find an alternative.
ProAir Digihaler is a quick-relief inhaler. Teva continues to produce ProAir® RespiClick®. This is the same medication as ProAir Digihaler without the digital component. Teva also produces a generic Albuterol Sulfate HFA Inhalation Aerosol.
ArmonAir Digihaler is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Teva does not offer an alternative for this medication. However, inhalers containing the same ICS are available from other manufacturers. Flovent inhalers, which also contain fluticasone propionate, were also discontinued in 2024. Generics are available. These include a generic Fluticasone Propionate HFA and a generic Fluticasone Propionate Diskus Inhalation Powder.
AirDuo Digihaler is a combination of a long-acting beta2-agonist and an inhaled corticosteroid. Teva continues to produce AirDuo RespiClick. This is the same medication as AirDuo Digihaler without the digital component.
The costs of alternative medications you choose may differ from digihalers. Check your health insurance coverage before getting a new inhaler prescription. Find out what brand and generic asthma medications are covered.
“People will be able to find the same medications available,” Mitchells says. “The question is whether their payors and the PBMs the payors use will allow for that transition without affecting the cost or availability to patients who need to switch.”
Getting an asthma coach can help you manage asthma medications and control. The Virtual Asthma Coaching Program uses a free app as part of asthma management.
Learn more about Asthma Medications and Treatment.
Reviewed by:
Purvi Parikh, MD, FACAAI is an adult and pediatric allergist and immunologist at Allergy and Asthma Associates of Murray Hill in New York City. She is on faculty as Clinical Assistant Professor in both departments of Medicine and Pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine.
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