Frequent Asked Questions about Aerosol Therapy  [ Return towards  Overview about Aerosol Therapy  ]

What is aerosol therapy?

Aerosol therapy is a method of treatment and prevention that consists of atomising a drug into a sol (suspension) so that it can be inhaled into the respiratory tract.

How does aerosol therapy work?

The fine particles of drug penetrate right into the respiratory tract, disperse and deposit everywhere, even in the tiniest corners that are hardest to reach, such as the pulmonary alveoli.

The smaller the particles, the greater their penetration into the lower airway (bronchi and lungs) and the greater the therapeutic efficacy of the treatment. For the upper airway, on the other hand, the particles must be larger in size to enable them to deposit in the nasal cavities. This is why it is very important to use different nebulisers, as they can atomise particles suitable for deposition in the target organs.

What size must the particles be to allow the drug to reach the airways?

The aerosol must atomise particles of different diameters, depending on the part of the airway targeted. Particles must be larger than 10 microns for the upper airway and 2-5 microns for the lower airway.

Who is aerosol therapy suitable for?

Aerosol therapy can be used easily and safely at all ages, even in very early childhood. It is particularly indicated for small children, who are unable to collaborate and cannot be treated using other devices.

What is the optimal volume?

The optimal volume for aerosol therapy is 1 to 3 millilitres. But be warned, drugs and doses must always be prescribed by your GP.

How long should a session last?

The optimal duration can range from 1-3 minutes, depending on the concentration of drug, the subject’s age and the disorder being treated. The dose and duration of treatment must always be prescribed by your GP.

What do I dilute the drug wìth? Can I use distilled water?

If the drug needs to be diluted, preferably use physiological solution, not distilled or tap water.

Can I use two drugs at the same time?

Combinations of more than one drug can be used, but only if recommended by the doctor and under strict medical control.

How do I use the mouthpiece, mask and nasal fork?

It is always preferable to use the face mask for treating the lower airway. Connect it to the nebuliser containing the drug and make sure it fits the face snugly during treatment. Air Liquide Medical Systems has designed the new spacer masks, Nebula Spacer and Perfecta, which have the dual advantage of enhancing drug deposition in the lower airway and reducing dispersal. Thanks to its special shape and the soft non-toxic anti-allergic material used, the Nebula spacer mouth-mask can be used very comfortably by the patient during treatment. Alternatively, you can use the mouthpiece. Connect it to the nebuliser containing the drug and place it over your mouth. >

With both the mask and the mouthpiece, the nebuliser generates particles measuring 1-5 microns, small enough to deposit in the lower airway.

The best way of treating the upper airway is using the Rinowash .This is the first endonasal device designed for aerosol treatment of the upper airway. It produces aerosol particles measuring more than 10 microns, which deposit in the nasal cavity only.

Can the nebuliser and accessories be used by more than one person?

The nebuliser and the mask should be used by one patient only. However, if the nebuliser, mask and mouthpiece are sterilised thoroughly after each use, they can be used by more than one person.

The product handbook contains full cleaning and sterilisation instructions.

Are the Rinowash nebuliser, Perfecta and Nebula Spacer mask compatible with other devices?

Yes, they are fully compatible with other compressed air devices sold by chemists for use ANY MAKE of device of this type.

Can disorders of the upper airway be treated using an ultrasound aerosol?

It is preferable to use a compressed air nebuliser because an ultrasound aerosol cannot produce particles of a size suitable for deposition in the upper airway. Besides, they are not suitable for atomising drugs in suspension and have the scientifically proven disadvantage of reaching a high temperature, which overheats the solution and alters the active ingredient.

Where can I purchase Air Liquide Medical Systems products?

These products are sold in chemist’s shops and ones selling medical and healthcare equipment all over the country.

How should I clean and sterilise nebulisers?

The nebulisers must always be detached from the device before cleaning and disinfecting. They should be cleaned and disinfected after each treatment and prior to use. Take the nebulisers apart, as shown in the Instruction Handbook . Wash in hot water using a little non-abrasive detergent and rinse thoroughly in running water. The cleaned parts must be dried using a soft cloth and fitted back together again. After washing, all the nebuliser components can be immersed in a cold disinfectant solution, as explained in the Instruction Handbook.

The component parts can also be disinfected by boiling in water (max 10 minutes).

Where can I find maintenance instructions and recommendations for use?

All our products are accompanied by an Instruction Handbook, as required by European standards, that lists the technical features and provides full operating instructions and recommendations for safe use.