New "envirohalers" on way CMAJ 1997;157:360 © 1997 Canadian Medical Association Pharmaceutical companies are phasing out the use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as the propellant for metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), but the change will likely make little difference for physicians or their patients. The new inhalers not only help protect the environment but also are more efficient and deliver medication more reliably in cold weather and near the end of an MDI's life span. Physicians should know that the new MDIs, which will be available this fall, will provide patients with a softer "puff" of medication and have a different taste than the old inhalers. The change in propellant is part of an agreement signed by more than 150 countries to eliminate CFC production. All CFCs must be eliminated from inhalers by the year 2000. Send a letter to the editor responding to this article Envoyez une lettre à la rédaction au sujet de cet article | CMAJ August 15, 1997 (vol 157, no 4) / JAMC le 15 août 1997 (vol 157, no 4) |