FDA To Pull Primatene Mist

The only over-the-counter asthma inhaler sold in the U.S. is being taken off the shelves beginning next year. The FDA says Primatene Mist will be gone because it contains CFC's, which damages the earth's ozone layer.

Dr. Devang Doshi with Beaumont Children's Hospital, told WWJ he's pleased with the FDA's decision.

"The safety of this medication is in question, because many patients clearly self-medicate. They may have breathing concerns or issues and they don't seek the advice of their healthcare provider," he said.

"They may not, in fact, truly have asthma, and then are self-medicating with a medication that can potentially be harmfull, which is way many of us don't like this medication available," Doshi said.

Doshi said there is a possibility they will replace the drug.

"That's what they've done with most asthma medications that are prescription-based, to an alternative propellant called HFA or  hydrofluoroalkane. I hope they don't. That's just my personal bias," he said.

Doshi said anyone who feels they may have respiratory problems should see a doctor to get the correct prescription.