Generic Face-off: How the new ProAir generic is different from Ventolin’s.
On January 15, 2019, the FDA approved the first generic equivalent for Ventolin HFA. Almost a year later on February 24th, 2020, the FDA approved the first generic equivalent for ProAir HFA Inhalation aerosol.
How are they the same?
Both ProAir HFA and Ventolin HFA contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredient, albuterol sulfate. Both products have an indication to treat or prevent bronchospasms in patients 4 years or older. They also have an indication for exercise-induced bronchospasm. Both products deliver 108 mcg of albuterol sulfate per actuation.
How are they different?
The first difference is seen in their manufacturers; Ventolin is made by GlaxoSmithKline while ProAir is made by Teva Respiratory. The next difference is in their inactive ingredients, ProAir contains ethanol while Ventolin does not. ProAir has a dose counter attached to the actuator which changes to solid red when the counter reaches zero. Lastly a study was conducted to compare the force, temperature, and particle size of ProAir HFA and Ventolin HFA. The results of the study indicated that “ProAir HFA delivers a warmer, lower-impact, and longer-lasting plume compared with Ventolin HFA”. The researchers speculate that these characteristics of ProAir HFA may provide the patient with a more consistent and comfortable experience.
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