Nebulizer

A nebulizer is a machine that turns liquid medicine into a mist. You breathe in the medicine through a mask or mouthpiece. This allows it to get directly to your airways and lungs.

Common nebulizer medications include ones that open your airways (bronchodilators) or reduce inflammation (corticosteroids). Sometimes, antibiotics or medicines that thin mucus (mucolytics) are used with a nebulizer, too.

Conditions treated with a nebulizer

Nebulizers treat:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Bronchiectasis
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pneumonia
• Upper respiratory infections

You might also use a nebulizer in a hospital if you’re having trouble breathing due to airway inflammation.

Types

Types of nebulizers include:

• Jet: These use compressed air to create mist. This is the most common type of nebulizer machine.
• Ultrasonic: These use high-frequency vibrations to create mist.
• Mesh: These use a vibrating mesh to create mist.

Some medicines only work with certain types of machines. Your healthcare provider will recommend a nebulizer that works with yours. Some other things to consider in a nebulizer machine include:

• How easy it is to use
• How much noise it makes
• How much it costs
• How effective it is or how much medicine can get to your lungs
• Whether you need it to be portable or will be using it at home

Some nebulizers even look like cute animals, making them less intimidating for kids.

How do you use a nebulizer?

Many types of nebulizers are set up slightly differently. Always read the directions and check with your provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to use the kind you have.

Set up

1. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them with a clean towel.
2. If your nebulizer has a compressor (the large, motorized part connected with a hose), place it on a sturdy surface.
3. If using an ultrasonic nebulizer, fill the water reservoir or cup.
4. Pour your medication into the nebulizer cup. On an ultrasonic nebulizer, the medicine cup fits into or on top of the water reservoir.
5. Attach the top portion of the medicine cup or close the lid.
6. Connect the mouthpiece or face mask to the medicine cup.
7. Connect the tubing to the medicine cup and compressor (if necessary).
8. Plug in the nebulizer if it has a plug. Some plug into the wall, some have a plug for your car, and some use a battery.

Using your nebulizer

1. Sit up straight in a comfortable chair.
2. If you’re using a mouthpiece, place it between your teeth and seal your lips around it. If you’re using a mask, position it comfortably and securely on your face, covering your mouth and nose.
3. Turn on the nebulizer.
4. Breathe normally through your mouth.
5. If possible, every few breaths, take a slow, deep breath and hold it for two to three seconds before breathing out. This allows the medication to settle into your airways.
6. Continue the treatment until the medication is gone (this takes anywhere from five to 15 minutes). Use all the medicine unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
7. If you become dizzy, slow your breathing or rest briefly.
8. Turn off the nebulizer.
9. Remove the mask or mouthpiece.
10. Clean the medicine cup and other parts following the directions that come with it.

How long do I need to use a nebulizer?

How long you’ll need to use a nebulizer depends on what you’re treating. Some people use them every day. Others only need them when breathing symptoms flare up. Talk to your provider about when to use a nebulizer and for how long.

What are the pros and cons of nebulizers?

The main benefit of using a nebulizer is that it can deliver medicine directly to your airways. They’re also helpful for kids and those who can’t use an inhaler.

There are some drawbacks, though. They can be noisy, which can bother kids in particular. They can sometimes be expensive, too.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Always talk to your healthcare provider if you have any issues with your nebulizer or the medication. Don’t hesitate to ask if you’re not sure how to use it. Make sure you talk to your pharmacist about whether nebulized medications can be used together.

Some medicines might make you feel jittery or shaky. Talk to your provider if you have bothersome symptoms.

Do you need a prescription for a nebulizer?

Generally, yes. While you might be able to get one without a prescription, a healthcare provider still needs to prescribe the medicine that goes in it.