According to the FDA, drug manufacturer GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has notified them of the upcoming discontinuation of their brands Flovent HFA (fluticasone propionate inhalation aerosol) and Flovent Diskus (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder) on June 12, 2023. Flovent HFA and Flovent Diskus are inhaled prescription medications used to prevent symptoms of asthma by reducing the swelling of the airways, making breathing easier. The latest FDA update mentions that the last date for ordering these brands is December 31, 2023. GSK has forecasted that the supply of these brands will be depleted by early 2024. They cite manufacturing issues and low sales as the reasons for deciding to discontinue these forms of Flovent.
Don't Worry: Effective Substitutes Are Available
If you are concerned about this discontinuation, there’s no need to worry. Substitutes for Flovent are readily available in the market to alleviate the consequences of its withdrawal. These substitutes are the same drugs but in generic forms. Generic medications contain the same chemical substance as Flovent, which was originally manufactured by GSK and protected by patents.
Dispelling Myths About Generic Medications
Healthcare providers and patients often believe that generic medications do not match their branded counterparts in safety, efficacy, and quality. However, this fear is unfounded. The withdrawal of the Flovent brand and its replacement by generic versions will not make them inferior. The active ingredients of generic drugs are the same as those in Flovent. Generic drugs undergo the same review process, have the same performance, and are manufactured in plants that meet the same standards as those for Flovent.
Suitable Substitutes for Flovent
There are several preferred substitutes readily available to replace Flovent and manage your asthma symptoms effectively. Refer to the table below for suitable substitutes:
| Name | Content | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| HFA by RPK Pharmaceuticals | Generic fluticasone metered dose inhaler, identical to Flovent HFA | Doses same as Flovent HFA: 44, 110, and 220 micrograms |
| ArmonAir Digihaler | Generic dry powder fluticasone propionate inhaler, identical to Flovent Diskus | Doses: 55, 113, and 232 micrograms (Flovent Diskus doses: 50, 100, and 250 micrograms) |
| Arnuity | Fluticasone furoate (different from Flovent propionate) | Check with your physician for transition dosage |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does GSK discontinue its brand Flovent?
- Yes, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has notified the FDA of the upcoming discontinuation of the Flovent brand as of June 2, 2023.
- How long will patients be able to get Flovent?
- Flovent products are available until December 2023. According to GSK, the availability of Flovent will be depleted by January 2024.
- Are generic versions the same as Flovent?
- Yes, generic versions contain similar active ingredients as Flovent.
- Will symptom relief in asthma patients be similar?
- Yes, symptom relief will be similar.
- What are generic versions?
- A generic drug is a medication that contains the same active ingredients as Flovent in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. It works the same way as Flovent.
- What is the FDA?
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the drug regulatory authority of the United States, which protects public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs.
Conclusion
The discontinuation of Flovent should not be a cause for concern as its generic versions are readily available and will have the same safety and efficacy as Flovent. These substitutes will manage your asthma just as effectively as Flovent.
If you have concerns about your asthma medication or need guidance on transitioning to a substitute, schedule an appointment to check with our doctors. Early evaluation and guidance can ensure continuous and effective management of your asthma.
For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit www.accesspediatric.com