Last reviewed: 12 March 2026

Inhalers and Nebulisers

Overview

Inhalers and nebulisers are medical devices used to deliver medication directly into the lungs. They convert liquid medication into a fine mist or aerosol that can be breathed into the airways.

This approach has several advantages:

• the medicine goes directly to the lungs where it is needed
• smaller doses can often be used
• side effects elsewhere in the body may be reduced

These devices are commonly used to treat conditions such as:

• asthma
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• bronchiectasis
• aspergillosis-related lung disease

Inhalers

Hand-held inhalers are commonly used to treat asthma and other lung conditions. They are small, portable devices that deliver medication directly into the airways.

Correct inhaler technique is one of the most important factors in good asthma control. Your doctor, nurse or pharmacist can demonstrate how to use your inhaler properly.

Reliever inhalers

Reliever inhalers contain medicines that relax the muscles around the airways, allowing them to open quickly during breathing difficulties or asthma attacks.

The most common reliever medication is salbutamol (often known by the brand name Ventolin).

Preventer inhalers

Preventer inhalers contain medicines that reduce inflammation in the lungs. They are usually taken daily to reduce the risk of asthma attacks.

Most preventer inhalers contain inhaled corticosteroids such as:

• beclometasone
• budesonide
• fluticasone

Some inhalers combine steroids with long-acting bronchodilators.

Some patients use a spacer device, which attaches to the inhaler and helps more medication reach the lungs.

Changes to inhaler types

Some patients notice that their inhaler device changes from time to time. This may happen because new inhalers become available, prescribing guidance changes, or environmental policies encourage the use of inhalers with a lower carbon footprint.

National prescribing guidance emphasises that patients should only be switched to a different inhaler device if they are able to use it correctly and understand how it works. If you feel that a new inhaler is more difficult to use, you should discuss this with your healthcare professional. In many cases it is possible to continue using a device that works well for you.

Many newer inhalers are dry powder inhalers (DPIs). These release medication when you breathe in strongly through the device.

For many people they work just as well as traditional pressurised inhalers, but they require a slightly different breathing technique. Some people with severe lung disease may find them harder to use because they require a stronger inhalation.

If your inhaler has been changed and you feel it is not working well, ask your healthcare professional to review your inhaler technique or discuss alternative options.

Types of inhaler devices

Nebulisers

Nebulisers convert liquid medication into a mist that can be inhaled through a mask or mouthpiece.

They are useful when:

• a higher dose of medication is required
• patients are too unwell to use inhalers
• the medication is not available in inhaler form

Medications delivered using nebulisers may include:

• bronchodilators (such as salbutamol)
• saline solutions
• antibiotics
• antifungal medications

Nebulisers in chronic lung disease

Types of nebulisers

Jet nebulisers

Jet nebulisers use compressed air or oxygen to turn liquid medication into a mist.

Examples include Microneb III and Pari LC Sprint devices used in specialist centres.

Two main types are used:

• Simple jet nebulisers – deliver medication continuously
• Breath-assisted nebulisers – release medication mainly during inhalation

Vibrating mesh nebulisers

These use a vibrating membrane containing microscopic holes that push medication through to create a mist.

Ultrasonic nebulisers

Ultrasonic nebulisers use high-frequency vibrations to generate aerosol droplets.

Cleaning and maintenance

Cleaning nebuliser equipment is important to prevent infection.

• Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions
• Wash and dry nebuliser parts after use
• Replace masks and tubing regularly

Masks and tubing are commonly replaced about every three months.

Common questions

Which is better: an inhaler or a nebuliser?

Neither is automatically better. Inhalers are small, portable and effective for most people with asthma or mild lung disease. Nebulisers are usually used when higher doses of medication are needed or when patients find inhalers difficult to use.

Why might my doctor prescribe a nebuliser?

Nebulisers may be used if you need higher doses of medication, if you have difficulty using inhalers, or if the medication is only available in nebulised form. They are commonly used in conditions such as bronchiectasis, severe asthma and some forms of aspergillosis.

Why has my inhaler been changed?

Inhalers are sometimes changed because new devices become available, prescribing guidance changes, or environmental policies encourage inhalers with a lower carbon footprint. If you are unsure about a new inhaler, ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to review your inhaler technique.

Do nebulisers deliver medication deeper into the lungs?

Both inhalers and nebulisers deliver medication into the lungs. Nebulisers deliver medication over a longer period and can sometimes reach deeper airways more easily in patients who have difficulty using inhalers.

How often should nebuliser equipment be replaced?

Masks, tubing and nebuliser chambers usually need replacing periodically according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In many cases masks and tubing are replaced about every three months.

Further information

For demonstrations of inhaler technique visit:

Asthma + Lung UK inhaler technique videos

Information about nebulisers is available at:

Asthma + Lung UK guide to nebulisers

Your respiratory specialist team can also provide personalised advice on inhalers and nebulisers and demonstrate correct technique.

Author and review information