How to Use Nebulizers

A nebulizer can be used occasionally, daily (1 - 4 times per day), or even more than 4 times a day during an acute asthmatic attack. Treatments usually last 5 - 10 minutes.

Check that your machine, nebulizer bowl and tubing are clean and in good working order before and after use.
Hold the nebulizer bowl or chamber stationary, screw off the cap, and add your medication.
Use a single premixed dose vial (albuterol, AccuNeb®, Intal®, Pulmicort Respules®, Xopenex®) or add the prescribed dose of the medicated solution (albuterol, Proventil®) to a diluent (saline or cromolyn). Place the medication(s) in the nebulizer bowl and close the bowl.
Insert the mouthpiece into the nebulizer bowl or attach a mask for infants.
Attach the tubing to the inlet of the nebulizer bowl and turn the unit on.
Hold the mouthpiece between your teeth and close your mouth gently around the mouthpiece, sealing it with your lips (see below).

Turn on the machine and a mist should exit the mouthpiece.
Breathe slowly and slightly more deeply than usual (10 - 15 times per minute).
If the treatment needs to be interrupted, just shut off the machine and resume its use later.
If using an aerosol mask, place the mask over your mouth and nose.
Clean your machine and nebulizer bowl regularly as per the manufacturer's instructions. Keep a spare nebulizer bowl available should the one you are using suddenly stop working.