What is aerosol therapy and how does it work?
Aerosol therapy is a technique for delivering medication in the form of ultra-fine particles directly into the respiratory tract. These particles, produced by a device called a nebulizer, are then inhaled by the patient.
How it works
The medication, in liquid form, is transformed into an aerosol by means of a stream of compressed air, ultrasound or a vibrating sieve. This medicated mist penetrates deep into the bronchial tubes and pulmonary alveoli, enabling rapid and effective absorption.
Why is this method effective?
Unlike tablets or syrups, which pass through the digestive tract before reaching the bloodstream, aerosol therapy acts directly on the lungs. This means
- rapid onset of action
- Reduced systemic side effects
- more targeted administration, ideal for respiratory diseases
What are the advantages of aerosol therapy over other treatments?
Aerosol therapy is a high-performance alternative to drugs administered orally or by injection. Its main advantages are
- Immediate effect: the active substances reach the lungs directly and take effect within minutes. Ideal for asthma attacks or breathing difficulties.
- Optimized dosage: Since the drug is administered locally, a smaller quantity is all that's needed for maximum therapeutic effect.
- Fewer side-effects: pulmonary absorption limits systemic diffusion of the drug, reducing side-effects such as digestive disorders or liver damage.
- Ease of administration: This method is ideal for children, the elderly or patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets.
- Adaptability to many respiratory diseases: Asthma, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary infections... Aerosol therapy can be adapted to many pathologies.
Who can benefit from aerosol therapy?
Aerosol therapy is particularly suitable for patients suffering from chronic or acute respiratory pathologies:
- Asthma: Aerosol therapy enables bronchodilators and corticosteroids to be inhaled to reduce inflammation and prevent attacks.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): This treatment facilitates bronchial dilatation and limits excessive mucus production.
- Chronic lung infections: Aerosol therapy makes it possible to administer inhaled antibiotics, particularly to cystic fibrosis patients.
- Infantile bronchiolitis: In babies, aerosol therapy helps clear congested airways and improves breathing.
- Common ENT diseases: Chronic sinusitis, laryngitis or other respiratory infections can be relieved by medicated inhalation.
What types of nebulizer are used in aerosol therapy?
There are three main types of nebulizer, each with its own specific features:
- Pneumatic (compressed-air) nebulizer: Operates by means of a compressor sending a stream of air at high pressure. Produces medium-sized particles (3 to 5 microns). Ideal for bronchodilator treatments and inhaled corticosteroids.
- Ultrasonic nebulizer: Uses ultrasonic vibrations to transform liquid into a very fine aerosol. Very quiet and fast. Less suitable for thick drugs (antibiotics, corticoids).
- Vibrating sieve nebulizer: Operates with a perforated membrane that vibrates at high frequency. Produces extremely fine particles, optimal for deep penetration into the lungs. The most advanced technology, but also the most expensive.
Which drugs are most commonly used in aerosol therapy?
Aerosol therapy enables the administration of a variety of drugs:
- Bronchodilators (e.g. Salbutamol, Formoterol): Used to open up the airways in cases of asthma or COPD.
- Inhaled corticosteroids (e.g. Budesonide, Beclomethasone): Reduce bronchial inflammation and prevent asthma attacks.
- Inhaled antibiotics (e.g. Tobramycin, Colimycin): Essential for patients with severe lung infections.
- Mucolytics (e.g. Acetylcysteine): Thin thick bronchial secretions to facilitate evacuation.
How do I use my nebulizer?
To maximize treatment effectiveness, there are a few rules to follow:
- Installation: Sit comfortably and breathe calmly.
- Use: Inhale deeply through your mouth and exhale slowly.
- Cleaning: Wash the nebulizer after each use to avoid contamination.
- Maintenance: Regularly check the condition of the compressor and change the filters if necessary.
What are the possible side effects?
Aerosol therapy is generally well tolerated, but certain side effects may occur:
- Dry mouth or throat irritation, particularly with inhaled corticosteroids.
- Palpitations or tremors, especially with bronchodilators.
- ENT infections if nebulizer hygiene is poor.
To minimize these effects, we recommend rinsing your mouth thoroughly after each use, and cleaning your nebulizer thoroughly after each use.
Where to buy a nebulizer and how much does aerosol therapy cost?
Nebulizers are available in pharmacies, online or in specialized stores. Prices range from 50 to 200 euros, depending on the technology used.
Reimbursement by the Assurance Maladie is possible on medical prescription, particularly for patients with chronic pathologies.
