Nebulisation is one of three common methods used for inhaled drug delivery. Other methods of inhaled drug delivery are Pressurised Metered Dose Inhalers and Dry Powder Inhalers. Nebulisers are required when the condition cannot be controlled by the use of either Metered Dose Inhalers or Dry Powder inhalers, and also when a large dose of medication is required. The advantages of nebulisation are that medication is inhaled easily through a mask or mouthpiece without the need to breathe deeply whilst still delivering large doses of medication. Nebulisation is also the only method of administering antibiotics in aerosol form. Nebulisers can be used to treat the following conditions:
-Asthma
-Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
-Cystic Fibrosis
-Respiratory Infections
These are often treated with medication such as Bronchodilators, Steroids, Sodium Cromoglycate, Antibiotics and Saline.
Nebulisers work by converting therapeutic solutions into a fine aerosol mist for inhalation into the respiratory system. There are two types of nebulisers, Compressor nebulisers and Ultrasonic nebulisers.
Compressor Nebulisers
Compressor nebulisers work by using compressed air to break down the liquid into particles that the patient can then inhale.
How a Compressor Nebuliser works
