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Directions for Use of Albuterol in a Nebulizer

A nebulizer is a machine that changes liquid medicine into a mist form. You inhale the mist through either a mask or mouthpiece. Nebulizers are for medications that are bronchodilators, or airway openers, such as Albuterol. Albuterol use is for preventing bronchospasms, while opening your airways.

  1. Setting up the Nebulizer

    • When you first get your nebulizer, you should be shown how to use it and how to clean it. The nebulizer parts are an air compressor, mask or mouthpiece, measuring device, and nebulizer cup.

      Place the air compressor somewhere sturdy and level and plug it into an outlet. Wash your hands before nebulizing.

      Albuterol comes in one-dose plastic containers. Pour the albuterol into the nebulizer cup. Attach the top portion of the cup, then connect the mouthpiece or mask to the cup. Connect the tubing to the aerosol compressor and the nebulizer cups, then turn on the compressor. You should see a light mist coming form the back of the tube.

      Make sure you are comfortable before using the nebulizer. If you use the mouthpiece, place it between your teeth, using your mouth as a seal.

    Using the Nebulizer with Albuterol

    • Take slow deep breaths as you inhale the albuterol. Try to hold your breath each time for two seconds, giving the medicine time to settle into your lungs. You will know when you have finished the treatment when the mist is no longer spraying. When you are done, turn off the machine. Take several deep breaths and then cough. Keep coughing as you try to clear your lungs and get rid of any secretions. Cough into a tissue. Wash your hands again with soap and warm water, dry with a clean towel.

    Caring for your Nebulizer

    • Rinse your nebulizer cup with warm water after each treatment. After each day’s use, wash all the pieces in a mild detergent, rinse and allow to air dry. Every third day, disinfect your equipment with a vinegar solution of a half-cup of white vinegar with 1 1/2 cups of water.

    Caution

    • If you feel jittery at any time, stop the treatment and rest for at least five minutes. Try the treatment again, this time breathing slower. If the jitters continue, contact your health care provider.
      Tell your physician if you are allergic to albuterol, have heart disease, heart rhythm disorder, seizure disorder, diabetes or overactive thyroid. If you are pregnant, albuterol may be harmful to your unborn baby. If you are nursing, it is not yet known if albuterol passes into breast milk.

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