- A nebulizer is a small home device that aerosolizes medication so children can inhale it directly into their lungs.
- Nebulizers are commonly used to treat wheezing, often related to viral illnesses or asthma, using medications like albuterol or inhaled corticosteroids.
- While nebulizer machines can be purchased over the counter, the medications require a prescription.
- Using a nebulizer without medication offers limited benefit, as saline mist does not treat wheezing symptoms.
- Studies show that inhalers with proper technique and spacers are just as effective as nebulizers and deliver medication more quickly, leading many hospitals to prefer inhalers.
Does Your Child Need a Nebulizer?
Nebulizers deliver inhaled medication for children with wheezing, but inhalers with proper technique are often just as effective and more efficient.
Geraldine Rubin, MD, Pediatrics
