What is pulse dose and is it better than continuous flow?

Pulse Mode refers to receiving a bolus dose of O2 only when you inhale, and as you exhale you don’t receive anything since you obviously cannot breath in any O2 as you exhale.

- Not all patients can tolerate Pulse Dose. Consult your doctor to see if this is the right decision for you.
- All portable oxygen concentrators have Pulse Dose Mode.
- Home Concentrators DO NOT have Pulse Dose Mode. 
- Patients are usually titrated for optimal Pulse Dose setting
- Battery duration is longer on Pulse Dose.
- Humidification can not be used while on Pulse Dose Mode.
- When on Pulse Dose Mode, the concentrator can not be used with a CPAP machine.

There are also Oxygen Regulators with Pulse Dose settings, for those who use oxygen cylinders.

Continuous Flow is a constant flow of oxygen regardless if you are inhaling or exhaling.

- Your doctor should write a prescription indicating what mode (Pulse vs. Continuous) is best for you.
- All home concentrators have Continuous Flow.
- Most Portable Oxygen Concentrators do not offer Continuous Flow Mode.
The only concentrators we have currently that offer Continuous Flow are;
the Philips Respironics SimplyGo, Caire SeQual Eclipse and the DeVilbiss iGo.
- Oxymizer Cannulas are used in Continuous Mode to conserve oxygen and battery life.
Please consult with your physician to see if this is an option for you.