GSK to Discontinue Flovent Asthma Inhaler in Favor of Generic Version

Medical professionals express concerns over potential higher costs and changes to drug delivery mechanism.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) will discontinue manufacturing Flovent, a popular asthma inhaler, from January 1, 2024, and replace it with a generic version.
The move is in line with new rules about drug pricing, which would require GSK to pay rebates tied to the drug's price increases.
Medical professionals are concerned that the switch could lead to higher co-pays and delayed access due to authorization requirements.
The American Academy of Pediatrics warns of potential future alterations to the drug's delivery mechanism, as some insurers only cover breath-actuated inhalers, which aren't suitable for treating children with certain asthma conditions.
Patients using Flovent are advised to refill their prescriptions before the end of the year and consult their physicians about possible alternatives.