A nebulizer changes medication from a liquid to a mist so that it can be more easily inhaled into the lungs. They are particularly effective in delivering asthma medications to infants and small children and to anyone who has difficulty using an asthma inhaler.
Nebulized therapy is often called a “breathing treatment.” And a variety of medications — both for immediate relief and maintenance of asthma symptoms — are available for use with a nebulizer.
To obtain a nebulizer, you need a prescription from your doctor, or it can be dispensed from your pediatrician’s office. Oftentimes, a breathing treatment is administered at the doctor’s office.
To use a nebulizer, you will need the following supplies:
- Air compressor
- Nebulizer cup
- Mask or mouthpiece
- Medication (either unit dose vials or bottles with measuring devices)
- Compressor tubing