CFC Inhalers for Asthma Being Phased Out

Parents, Adults or anybody that knows anybody with asthma or who uses inhalers for other respiratory problems:

If you use CFC (chlorofluorocarbons) inhalers to control or treat your asthma, you should be aware that they are being phased out for a new required standard by January 1, 2009. December 31, 2008 will be the last day you can get your CFC inhaler.

They are being replaced by, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, a "new safe and effective alternative propellant, hydroflouroalkane (HFA)"...let's all hope it's safe for those of us who depend on our inhalers to stay alive.

Why are they being phased out for a new HFA inhaler? CFCs destroy the earth's protective layer (ozone). CFCs have been removed from products since 1978 but were allowed still for some medical uses, like asthma inhalers.

The FDA's announcement is here.