Learning About Nebulizers

What is a nebulizer?

A nebulizer is a tool that delivers liquid medicine as a fine mist. You breathe in the medicine through a mouthpiece or face mask. This sends the medicine directly to your airways and lungs. You breathe in the medicine for a few minutes.

What is it used for?

A nebulizer may be used to treat respiratory problems. These include asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). If you have asthma, it can be used with controller medicines or with quick-relief medicine during an attack or flare-up.

A nebulizer can make inhaling medicines easier. It may be very helpful if it is hard for you to breathe or use your inhalers.

How do you use a nebulizer?

1. Put the medicine into the medicine container. Be sure to measure the right amount.
2. Make sure that the container is connected to the mouthpiece or face mask.
3. Turn on the air compressor.
4. Take deep, slow breaths through the mouthpiece or mask. Hold each breath for about 2 seconds.
5. Continue breathing until the medicine is gone from the container. When the medicine is gone, there will be no more mist coming out. This may take about 10 minutes.
6. Shake the container to make sure you get all the medicine.