Unexpected adverse effects of Freon 11 and Freon 12 as medication propellants

Abstract

Metered-dose inhalers are frequently used in treating pulmonary diseases associated with bronchoconstriction, chiefly asthma and chronic bronchitis. These aerosolized medications are not without the potential for adverse effects. The author describes two patients who likely had adverse reactions to the Freon propellants used in the inhalers. These reactions are reported in order to alert physicians to their possible occurrence and to suggest a rational treatment approach.