Learning About Nebulizers
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.
A nebulizer may be used to treat lung problems. These include asthma and chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease (COPD). A nebulizer can make inhaling medicines easier. It may be helpful if it is
hard for you to breathe or use your inhalers.
How do you use a nebulizer?
Read the instructions that come with the nebulizer. Nebulizers come in different shapes and sizes.
Each kind is used a little differently. Here are some general instructions.
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1. Wash your hands. Put the medicine into the medicine cup. Be sure to measure the
right amount.
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2. Make sure all the parts of the nebulizer are connected. Turn on the nebulizer.
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3. Sit up and put on the mouthpiece or mask. Take deep, slow breaths. Hold each
breath for about 2 seconds.
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4. Continue breathing until the medicine is gone. This may take up to 10 minutes.
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5. Tap the cup to make sure you get all the medicine. The medicine is gone from the
cup when the mist stops.
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6. Follow the instructions on how to clean the device.
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Current as of: October 25, 2024
Content Version: 14.4
Care instructions adapted under license by
your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this
instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any
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