Mdi Vs. Nebulizers

For many people with asthma or other respiratory ailments, having easy access to inhaled medicine can literally be a lifeline. The MDI, or metered dose inhaler, is commonly used as a portable treatment method, while nebulizers are stationary units that convert medicine into mist.

Portability

• Inhalers offer medicine in a small, handheld package, making them convenient for emergencies and travel. Nebulizers are normally larger and do not travel easily.

Function

• Nebulizers function by combining medicine into a compressed stream of mist. The nebulizer machine can deliver large amounts of medicine if needed. A inhaler uses a small canister of compressed gas for delivery and cannot hold as much medicine.

Control

• Nebulizers can be used continuously with no hands needed to keep the mask in place. This makes it easy to use by children or the elderly. In contrast, an inhaler must be held and manipulated in order to be used.

Power

• Inhalers operate by compressed gas alone and do not require batteries or power. In order to convert medicine into mist, nebulizers use power from either a wall outlet or batteries.

Effectiveness

• Both nebulizers and inhalers are very effective when used properly. However, inhalers are commonly more difficult to utilize properly for people with limited coordination, making them comparatively less effective.