SHM's Clinical Quick Talks-One-Minute Guide to MDI's vs Nebulizers in Obstructive Lung Diseases

One-Minute Guide to MDI's vs Nebulizers in Obstructive Lung Diseases

Pdf Summary

Asthma and COPD are common lung diseases that affect a large portion of the American population. Many patients with these conditions are treated with bronchodilator therapy, often through the use of nebulizers. However, when patients are discharged from the hospital, they are typically required to manage their symptoms using metered-dose inhalers (MDIs). Unfortunately, studies have shown that a significant percentage of patients misuse these devices. <br /><br />A systematic review of previous studies found that there was no significant difference in effectiveness between nebulizers and MDIs in delivering the medication to patients. Additionally, a small study conducted in an emergency department found no differences in lung function between patients treated with nebulizers or MDIs. <br /><br />Another study conducted in a hospital setting found that a high percentage of patients admitted for asthma or COPD were misusing their inhalers. However, after being educated on proper inhaler technique, all patients were able to achieve mastery. <br /><br />Based on these findings, it is recommended that patients with asthma and COPD be given aerosolized medications via MDIs with spacers and diskus inhalers as soon as they are able. These delivery methods are equally effective as nebulizers and also provide an opportunity for patients to improve their inhaler technique under direct observation. <br /><br />Overall, the use of MDIs with spacers and diskus inhalers is supported by the research and offers a practical and effective treatment option for patients with asthma and COPD.

Keywords

Asthma

COPD

lung diseases

bronchodilator therapy

nebulizers

metered-dose inhalers

misuse of inhalers

effectiveness of nebulizers vs MDIs

lung function

proper inhaler technique