The pharmaceutical inhalation industry stands at a pivotal crossroads. After decades of relative stability following the phase-out of CFCs in the 1990s, a second major transition is underway — this time driven by the urgent need to mitigate climate change. The move toward low-global-warming-potential (LGWP) propellants such as HFA152a and HFO-1234ze(E) represents not just an environmental imperative, but also an enormous opportunity to rethink how we develop, evaluate, and deliver pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) to patients worldwide. 

This article explores the significance of the shift to LGWP propellants, early performance data generated through the pioneering work of Proveris Laboratories and H&T Presspart, and the broader implications for product development, regulatory strategies, and patient access.

A Turning Point for pMDIs pMDIs have long been a cornerstone of respiratory care, offering portable, fastacting relief for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. However, their environmental impact, stemming primarily from their hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) propellants – notably HFA134a and HFA227 – has come under increased scrutiny. These HFAs, although ozone-safe compared to CFCs, have high global warming potentials (GWP >1300), far exceeding carbon dioxide.