What are the Different Types of Nebulizers?

May 28, 2020
different types of nebulizers

A nebulizer is a motorized medical device that breaks down medication into a fine mist for easy inhalation into the lungs. A doctor may recommend using a nebulizer to treat respiratory illnesses, such as asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, and bronchitis. There are different types of nebulizers for different needs.

Why are There Different Types of Nebulizers?

There are different types of nebulizers available. Nebulizers serve different respiratory illnesses and vary in performance, portability, and ease of use. Here we discuss various features and nebulizer types to help you determine which nebulizer is best for you.

Three Types of Nebulizers

The three primary types of nebulizers are:

  • Compressor or Jet Nebulizers
  • Ultrasonic Nebulizers
  • Mesh Nebulizers

Compressor or Jet Nebulizers

A compressor nebulizer uses compressed air to flow vaporized medicine into the mask or mouthpiece. Compressor nebulizers require a power source to generate the compressed air, so they are typically for home use only. However, some models can be powered through a car charging port or portable battery. While the portable compressor models tend to cost more, the home compressor nebulizers are fairly inexpensive. We recommend the Philips Respironics InnoSpire Essence Compressor Nebulizer System, currently on sale for $29.99. Prices are subject to change.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9LNWMDUPCA

Ultrasonic Nebulizers

Ultrasonic nebulizers use ultrasonic sound waves that are directly pushed into the liquid to turn into an aerosol. The waves create tiny droplets from the medicine which can be easily inhaled through a mask or mouthpiece. The aerosol is created through extremely tiny droplets that penetrate deep into the lungs. The Ultrasonic nebulizers do not require any airflow which negates the use of a compressor that reduces noise.

One minor disadvantage of an ultrasonic nebulizer over a jet nebulizer is that it produces larger medicine droplets on average and there is a substantial increase in reservoir temperature. 

Mesh Nebulizers

Mesh nebulizers use a vibrating element to drive the medication through mesh, creating thousands of aerosolized droplets for easy inhalation through a mask or mouthpiece. Using this type of nebulizer allows the medication to get deeper into the lungs, providing more efficient treatment. Mesh nebulizers are lightweight, portable and easy to use. They are the preferred nebulizers for children and the elderly. However, because of their portability and the addition of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, they tend to cost more. 

Some Major Portable Nebulizers

Philips Respironics InnoSpire Go Portable Mesh Nebulizer

One of the most popular mesh nebulizers is the Philips Respironics InnoSpire Go Portable Mesh Nebulizer, which offers complete treatment in approximately four minutes. It’s quiet, offers one button operation and provides up to 30 treatments on a single charge.

innospire go nebulizer

Flyp Portable Mesh Nebulizer

Another popular portable mesh nebulizer is the Flyp Portable Mesh Nebulizer. The Flyp weighs less than one pound and is truly a pocket-sized nebulizer. It delivers whisper-quiet treatments in minutes, making it ideal wherever you are. Disassembly and cleaning is easy, thanks to the magnetic mouthpiece.

Flyp Nebulizer

Where Can I Buy The Different Types Of Nebulizers?

You can buy portable and home nebulizers at any medical store or pharmacy. Additionally, there are several online retailers that sell nebulizers. Buy from an authorized retailer to enjoy several additional benefits like the best prices, warranty and guarantees, prescription renewal, better customer support, and more.

Here are some other benefits of buying from an authorized retailer.

The Oxygen Concentrator Supplies Shop is an authorized online retailer for nebulizers and other oxygen therapy equipment like Oxygen Concentrators and its accessories. You can find various kinds of nebulizers like mesh, compressor, ultrasonic, and pediatric nebulizers at The Oxygen Concentrator Supplies Shop.

For more information on Oxygen Concentrators, Nebulizers, and other respiratory disorder treatment accessories, find us on The Oxygen Concentrator Article

If you need help selecting a nebulizer, our knowledgeable customer care team is here to answer any questions. Give us a call at 888-941-1688 or email us at contact@oxygenconcentratorsupplies.com. Let us help you find a nebulizer that best fits your needs.

Chris Vasta

Chris Vasta is the president of The CPAP Shop and an expert in sleep and respiratory therapy. He often provides insights on product design and functionality on various manufacturers’ prototypes and is frequently tapped to provide reviews on new releases.