Inhaler being phased out in June

Patients are advised to see their GP to change onto a different inhaler

An inhaler used by around 200,000 people in the UK is being phased out after new European regulations were brought in by the government.

The Combivent Metered Aerosol Inhaler, which is used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), won't be given out from June.

The European Commission's phasing out all products containing chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

The inhaler combines two medicines to help people with COPD breathe easily.

It is used by a fifth of all COPD patients around the UK.

Dr Noemi Eiser, honorary medical director of the British Lung Foundation (BLF), said: "Changing is safe and easy, so it is good news for the patient and for the environment.

"It is also an opportunity for people with COPD to check their inhaler technique, to make sure they are using it properly."