What Is ProAir? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

ProAir is one of the most recognized names in rescue inhalers — but many patients don't know exactly what's in it, how it works, or how to use it correctly. This guide covers everything you need to know about ProAir (albuterol) in 2026: what it is, what it treats, how to use it, and important safety tips.

What Is ProAir?

ProAir is a brand name for albuterol sulfate, a medication in the short-acting beta agonist (SABA) class of bronchodilators. Albuterol is the active ingredient that makes ProAir work — it relaxes and opens the airways in your lungs so you can breathe more easily. ProAir is used as a rescue inhaler — meaning it provides quick relief during an acute asthma attack or breathing episode, not ongoing prevention.

ProAir has been sold under several product names:

ProAir HFA: The original pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) using HFA-134a propellant. The brand was discontinued by Teva in October 2022, but the authorized generic continues to be available.

ProAir RespiClick: A breath-activated dry powder inhaler. No shaking or priming needed. Available for adults and children 4 years and older.

ProAir Digihaler: A smart inhaler with a built-in sensor that tracked usage data via a smartphone app. Discontinued.

What Does ProAir Treat?

ProAir (albuterol) is FDA-approved for two uses:

Treatment or prevention of bronchospasm: ProAir is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm (airway narrowing) in patients 4 years of age and older with reversible obstructive airway disease, including asthma and COPD.

Exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB): Using ProAir 15–30 minutes before exercise can prevent exercise-triggered airway narrowing in susceptible patients.

ProAir is commonly prescribed for:

Asthma (all severity levels, as rescue medication)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction

Bronchospasm from any reversible obstructive cause

ProAir Dosage and How to Use It

The standard adult and pediatric dose for ProAir HFA is:

For acute symptoms: 2 inhalations (puffs) every 4–6 hours as needed. Each puff delivers 90 mcg of albuterol base. Maximum: 12 inhalations in 24 hours.

For exercise-induced bronchospasm prevention: 2 inhalations 15–30 minutes before exercise.

Some patients may find that 1 puff provides adequate relief — discuss the lowest effective dose with your doctor.

How to Use the ProAir HFA Inhaler Correctly

Shake well before each use.

Prime before first use or if not used for 2+ weeks: release 3 sprays into the air, away from your face.

Breathe out fully, then place the mouthpiece in your mouth with lips sealed around it.

Press down on the canister while taking a slow, deep breath.

Hold your breath for up to 10 seconds to allow the medication to reach deep into your lungs.

If taking a second puff, wait 1 minute between inhalations.

Clean the plastic mouthpiece with warm running water for 30 seconds at least once a week. Shake off excess water and air dry fully. A dirty mouthpiece can block medication delivery.

Storage and Handling

Store at room temperature: 68°F–77°F (20°C–25°C)

Do not expose to temperatures above 120°F (e.g., inside a hot car)

Keep the cap on when not in use

Discard when the dose counter reads 0 or at the expiration date, whichever comes first

Important: ProAir Is Not a Controller Medication

ProAir is a rescue inhaler — it provides fast relief during symptoms but does not treat the underlying inflammation that causes asthma. It is not a substitute for inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) or other daily controller medications. If you find yourself using ProAir more than twice per week, that's a signal your asthma may not be adequately controlled and you should discuss your treatment plan with your doctor.

Want to understand more about how albuterol works in your body? Read our guide on the mechanism of action of ProAir explained in plain English. And if you're having trouble finding ProAir at a pharmacy near you, medfinder can help.