Nebulizers are a method of delivering medications to a patient. Also known as breathing therapy / breathing treatment, nebulizers help control pulmonary symptom such as swelling of air passages, shortness of breath, and wheezing. This unique drug delivery system administers medications by converting those drugs from liquid form into a mist, which is then inhaled and reaches the lungs quickly. In many cases, nebulizers are used as an alternative to inhalers, especially for children with asthma and other lung conditions.
Common examples of conditions that may be treated with use of a nebulizer include:
Nebulizers may be easier to use than metered-dose inhalers (MDIs), though both devices deliver the same forms of medications. Nebulizers are particularly useful in treating children with asthma and other pulmonary conditions, since children often find it more difficult to use inhalers than adults. Nebulizers also allow for mixing multiple medications for simultaneous use. There are both battery-operated and electric versions of nebulizers. There are also different sizes available: A larger form that can be plugged in and set out on a dresser or table, and small portable varieties that are convenient for travel.