Beta-Agonists Short Acting Inhalers
Drugs - Beta-agonist inhalers - Short-acting
April 2010
Therapeutic area - Respiratory
Drugs
| Preferred |
Non preferred |
ProAir HFA
Proventil HFA
Ventolin HFA |
Maxair Autohaler
Xopenex HFA |
HFA - hydroflouroalkane propellant
Prior authorization criteria
- Intolerance to the preferred alternatives as evidenced by increased heart rate, blood pressure or tremors at doses not exceeding 2 puffs
Maxair Autohaler only
Patient has manual dexterity that disallows use of a press and breathe inhaler.
Notes on over use of inhaled beta-agonists
- Despite the national guidelines concerning the proper use of inhaled asthma medication, over-reliance on short acting inhaled beta-agonist medication and under-use of corticosteroids persists in the US.
- National asthma guidelines recommend that short acting inhaled beta agonists be used on an as-needed basis rather than as a regular scheduled medication.
- Regular use of inhaled corticosteroids is recommended for the control of persistent asthma symptoms.
- Increasing use of a beta agonist inhaler indicates worsening asthma or COPD symptoms and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Questions?
MHCP Provider Call Center 651-431-2700 or 800-366-5411
