Inhaler VS nebulizer
I have COPD - not sure of the level. I'm not on oxygen but I have two important inhalers: Atrovent and Wixela Inhub. I can get the medication in inhaler form or I can get it through a nebulizer. The inhalers cost a lot more but are much more convenient. What is your experience with each of these methods and which one do you think works the best?
Hi
and welcome!! Thanks for your post and question - it's a good one and has been a topic of conversation within the medical profession for many years! You actually hit the proverbial 'nail on the head', with this one. The conversation has focused on just what you articulated, namely - metered dose inhalers are so convenient but, they can be expensive! On the other hand, small volume hand-held nebulizers, with liquid medication, can be cumbersome, inconvenient, and time consuming but, they can be much less expensive.
Studies have shown that the efficacy of each mode of delivery is pretty much the same. Knowing that, the choice becomes a very individual one, to be made by each patient.
I know patients who use the nebulizers (when at home), but rely on the MDI's when they are out and about. This 'hybrid' means of resolving the issue may be suitable for you, too!
Should you want to read more about this topic, we actually have some material (by our own), which focuses on this concern: https://copd.net/clinical/inhalers-vs-nebulizers.
What do you think?
Wishing you well,
Leon L (author/moderator)Thank you. It's my pleasure, BIRDWATCHER. If there is anything we can assist you with further, as regards any aspect of COPD, please let me or any other moderator/team member know.
You are always welcome here in our online community.
Warm regards,
Leon L (author/moderator)
