Online since 2002 | 866-316-0162
Many people may feel that all nebulizers work in the same manner. Unfortunately, this is probably not correct. While all nebulizers turn liquid medicine into a fine mist, many continuous flow small volume nebulizers (SVN) may not be as efficient as breath actuated nebulizers (BAN). With the standard small volume nebulizer, some of the mist may not be inhaled into the lungs and lost to the environment, whereas (as their name implies) breath actuated nebulizers only dispense medication during the patient’s inspiratory maneuver. This can lead to a much more efficient delivery of a prescribed drug which leads to faster relief of a respiratory malady.
In a study of 28 patients that required nebulizer treatment, respiratory therapists concluded that 54% indicated that breath actuated nebulizers performed better. One specific benefit showed 68% indicated that the treatment duration was better with BANs. In this particular study, BANs outperformed standard small volume nebulizers for duration of treatment (4.1 mins. vs. 9.9 mins.). Shorter treatment times and better efficacy can lead to greater satisfaction, not to mention breathing freer faster!!
While most nebulizers work with a compressor converting a liquid medicine into a fine mist at a continuous rate, most breath actuated nebulizers allow the distribution of medicine only when the patient inhales. By storing medication in the chamber during exhalation or a pause in treatment, waste is minimized. This allows these types of nebulizers to be extremely efficient. For example, a breath actuated nebulizer may have as little as a 4% waste of medication as opposed to up to 30% in other nebulizers since BANs only dose breathing medication during inspiratory activity. The below chart shows how the BAN creates a more efficient aerosol.
Nebulizer Output Comparison
During exhalation or any other activity that is not inhalation, these breath actuated nebulizers do not allow release of medication. Many of these nebulizers have a feedback button on top (see below photo) to give visual feedback to the user and can make it easier for the user to take long, slow breaths that make delivery of medicine more effective. This is the simple mechanism that keeps any respiratory medication in the chamber until it is actively inhaled into the lungs.
A great way to deliver this aerosolized medication is with the AeroEclipse Reusable Breath Actuated Nebulizer. With minimal effort it can enhance actuation sensitivity to 15 L per minute. It’s clear construction and milliliter markings make it easy to use as well as being able to note proper dosing. The fact that this BAN minimizes environmental loss of medication makes it perfect for pediatric applications. Anyone with a child knows how difficult getting them to sit during anything, let alone respiratory therapy, can be. The Monaghan AeroEclipse II Breath Actuated Nebulizer has a mouthpiece that can be removed and replaced with a Disposable AerosolMask to make aerosol delivery that much easier. It can hold between .5 mL and 6 mL of medication for a wide variety of patient needs. Both of these AeroEclipse nebulizers create droplets of medication at approximately the same size.
Through faster, more effective therapy we no longer have to suffer through respiratory discomfort. By getting more medication into our lungs we can make our therapy time shorter and minimize loss of medicine to the environment. Relax and breathe comfortably!!
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
In 2006, ...
Enteral Feeding: The What, When, and How
When traditional oral intake is not feasible, enteral feeding comes into play. It supports nutritional needs of individuals recovering from an injury or surgery. Dive into this informative article and learn what, when, why, and how of enteral feeding and ensure optimal patient care.
Using the Carpal Solution Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support
Looking for a non-invasive option to manage carpal tunnel symptoms? Experience relief from constant tingling and pain with this Carpal Solution Wrist Support. Read this article to know about the unique features and benefits of this wrist support brace designed to deal with CTS and find why it is one of the most reliable wrist braces available on the market.
Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2023
Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.
10 Best Overnight Adult Diapers
Worried about nighttime leaks? Say goodbye to leakage with our ten best overnight adult diapers and wake up refreshed and dry.
Five Best Cervical Traction Devices of 2023
Neck pain can wreak havoc on your otherwise healthy life. Traction device improves your cervical health and overall well-being. Read more to find our best cervical traction devices designed to curb the stiffness and discomfort of cervical muscles.
