Flovent, a commonly prescribed childhood asthma medication, has been discontinued in the United States. The British-based pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) made the decision to take the inhaler off the shelves in January after more than two decades on the market. It has been replaced with an identical generic version called fluticasone.
The authorized generic version contains the same medicine, in a similar device, and with the same instructions for use as the branded Flovent. However, the transition from the branded version to the generic version has been challenging for many parents whose children rely on this medication.
Some parents have faced difficulties in finding covered asthma medications or have had to pay more because their insurance plans do not cover the generic version. The cost of the generic version has increased significantly for some families, leading to financial strain.
Healthcare providers have also noted challenges with the transition, as the medication itself is crucial for asthma management. The different types of devices used to deliver the medication, such as metered dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers, can impact the effectiveness of the treatment.
Changing medications, even to the generic version, may result in changes in asthma symptoms. It is important for parents to closely monitor their children during the transition and inform their healthcare providers promptly if any changes or worsening of symptoms occur.
Insurance coverage for the generic version may vary depending on the pharmacy benefits provided by health insurers. Some insurance providers may not cover the generic version, leading to increased out-of-pocket expenses for families.
Pharmacies can assist in finding substitutes if the generic version is not covered or if the cost is too high. Patients can also explore free prescription savings services to reduce the financial burden of purchasing asthma medications.
Overall, the discontinuation of Flovent in the U.S. has raised concerns among parents, healthcare providers, and insurance companies. It is essential for families to stay informed about their insurance coverage and work closely with healthcare providers to ensure optimal asthma management for their children.
