TOP-17 Best inhalers and nebulizers

Before buying a nebulizer and inhaler, be sure to consider the particle size, number of masks, noise and form factor. The most modern are Mesh nebulizers, the loudest are compressor models. Only the upper respiratory tract can be treated with steam inhalers. The optimal aerosol atomization rate for an adult is 0.25-0.5 ml / min, for a child - 1-2 ml / min. Top brands: Omron, A&D, Microlife, B. Well, MED2000, Little Doctor.

In case of colds, inflammation of the lungs and bronchi, inhalers or nebulizers will quickly and effectively deliver medicines to the respiratory organs. With their help, it is possible to suspend or completely stop the development of inflammatory processes. Medicinal substances go directly to the inflamed areas, relieve puffiness, moisturize mucous membranes, and dilute phlegm.

Go directly to the rating =>

Attention! Never use nebulizers and inhalers without consulting a doctor, and without studying the instructions in detail! Failure to comply with the requirements can lead to serious consequences!

The rating of the best inhalers and nebulizers will help you choose the right device, based on user reviews and expert doctors' opinions.

We have already written about:

How Do I Pick a Good Inhaler and Nebulizer?

When choosing a good product, it is necessary to pay attention to the principle of operation, design, dimensions, volume of the loaded drug, noise level and other parameters that affect the ease of use and the result of the procedure. Different types of products have their own unique characteristics.

Types of inhalers

Modern inhalers are of the following types:

• Steam... Pharmaceuticals, herbal decoctions, mineral water, essential oils are heated to the state of steam.
• Compression... The drug is broken down into small particles by means of an air injection unit. Do not use herbal decoctions and oils.
• Ultrasonic... Under the influence of waves, drugs are converted into small particles. Hormones, antihistamines, oils and herbs, and some types of antibiotics are not used.
• MESH nebulizers... With the help of a special vibrating membrane, the medicine breaks down into finely dispersed parts, passes through the filter and enters the respiratory system. Essential oils and decoctions will deteriorate the apparatus.
• Spacers... Designed to filter large drug particles, slows down the feed rate. It is used in combination with an aerosol inhaler in the complex therapy of asthma or obstructive bronchitis.

The difference between inhalers and nebulizers, which is better?

Inhalers are devices for introducing a drug into the respiratory tract by heating and converting it into vapor droplets. Nebulizers use ultrasound, a compressor, membranes to break the medicine into tiny particles. They provide not a drip, but an aerosol method of administration of the agent. Only the upper respiratory tract can be treated with steam inhalers.

When using nebulizers, the medication reaches the lower respiratory tract. Which one is better to buy, you choose depending on the disease.

Can essential oils and herbal teas be used in nebulizers?

Nebulizers, unlike steam inhalers, create particles that can penetrate into the lower respiratory tract and even into the alveoli. When oil particles penetrate into this department, it provokes a blockage of the bronchi and leads to severe pneumonia! A similar situation with decoctions and infusions. Herbs are the strongest allergen, if it gets into the lower respiratory region, severe edema and an allergic reaction are possible, which entails serious consequences!

But there is an exception. If the nebulizer has different modes and particle size adjustment, for example, like flaem nuova delphinus f1000, then using a special nozzle will create particles that are not able to pass into the lower section. But before use, be sure to consult your doctor!

What is the best particle size?

For the treatment of diseases of the respiratory organs, it is important to choose the correct particle size:

• 5-10 microns for the treatment of diseases of the larynx, oropharynx, trachea;
• 2-5 microns to deliver the drug to the lower respiratory tract;
• 0.5-2 μm for the deposition of the drug in the pulmonary alveoli.

Quality models are available with the ability to adjust these indicators from 0.5 to 10 microns.

A nebulizer with a particle size of 2-5 microns is considered universal.

How to choose a nebulizer by the principle of work

When choosing a product, the following points should be considered:

• Steam inhalers help with damage to the larynx and trachea, but not effective in bronchial asthma. Do not load antibiotics, hormonal, mucolytic agents into the container.
• Compression nebulizers indicated for the treatment of diseases of the oropharynx and nasopharynx, asthma, bronchitis. They work noisy.
• Ultrasonic devices provide high quality dispersion, deliver healing solution to all parts of the respiratory system. Not suitable for all medications.
• Spacers allow you to inject one or two doses of the drug and stop the attack. Not suitable for a complete procedure.
• Drug savings will be provided by devices with regulation of drug delivery on inspiration and cessation on expiration.
• The aerosol spray rate for a child is 1-2 ml / min, for an adult - 0.25-0.5 ml / min.

The quietest are MESH nebulizers, the noisiest are compressor devices.

The best manufacturers of inhalers and nebulizers

The following manufacturers have proven themselves well:

• Omron... Japan's largest electronics manufacturing corporation manufactures highly efficient nebulizers. The advantages of the products include low noise and durability. The disadvantages include the high cost.
• Microlife... The headquarters of the world brand for the production of high-quality medical equipment are located in Switzerland, Italy and the USA, production facilities are in China. Nebulizers are affordable and easy to operate.
• B. Well... The European company creates household medical devices and health products. The brand produces many models of compressor, ultrasonic, membrane nebulizers, steam inhalers. The devices are appreciated for their high quality workmanship and impact efficiency.
• A&D Medical... World famous Japanese manufacturer of compressor, ultrasonic and mesh nebulizers. One of the most successful models is the dolphin-designed nebulizer for children.

The best compressor nebulizers

The leader in the rating of compressor nebulizers has become a universal device that will help you quickly get rid of the first symptoms of a cold, cure existing diseases. Depending on the selected regimen, the medicine is delivered to the upper, middle or lower airways.

Features:

• three modes of inhalation for different parts of the respiratory tract;
• convenient adjustment of the spray speed;
• large container for the medication.

The inhaler can be used for a wide range of diseases, including acute respiratory viral infections, tonsillitis, rhinitis, sinusitis.

Another quality nebulizer from Omron is not as compact, but also highly reliable. Includes masks of different sizes for children and adults. A long tube is included so that the child is not afraid of the noise. Thanks to the inhalation chamber, the drug consumption is economical. The manufacturer has been able to match the optimum air flow with the size of the sprayed particles.

Features of the model:

• masks of different sizes for adults and children;
• you can breathe through your nose and mouth, depending on the localization of the disease;
• Convenient transport bag where you can put the device and all accessories.

During an epidemic, the device can be used by the whole family. Patients with asthma also appreciated the advantages of the device.

The price tags for Omron nebulizers are not very pleasing to buyers. For those looking for an inexpensive option, we recommend taking a closer look at the best device in this segment from the Taiwanese manufacturer Little Doctor. For a reasonable price, the user receives a breath-activated nebulizer with three nozzles.

Features of the model:

• small residual volume of the solution at the end of the procedure;
• selective therapeutic effect, depending on the chosen nebulizer;
• it is allowed to use a wide range of drugs;

Judging by the numerous user reviews, this model is distinguished by the best price-functionality ratio.

Unlike the previous nebulizer, which uses traditional technologies, the MED-121 is equipped with the innovative Famili nebulizer. The strength of the drug flow will depend on which family member is using the device. A nebulizer from a European manufacturer makes it possible to use drugs of different viscosities.

Features:

• suitable for any user, regardless of age;
• can be used in the treatment of bronchial asthma;
• the device works without interruption for 30 minutes.

The nebulizer from B. Well will help to carry out high-quality therapy of the lower respiratory system at home.

A practical nebulizer model for the treatment and prevention of respiratory diseases in children and adults. Equally well suited for the treatment of all parts of the respiratory tract. Evaporation of liquid occurs quickly and allows for an effective procedure.

Features:

• the device generates a universal particle size;
• many masks included, additional ones can be purchased at the pharmacy;
• the device does not need a break, there is overheating protection.

The Japanese nebulizer is quite bulky and heavy. If you need a portable device, we recommend paying attention to the previous model of B.Well MED-121 rating.

The multifunctional nebulizer belongs to the category of professional medical equipment.It is used not only at home, but also in health resorts, medical institutions. The container can be loaded with oil solutions, antiseptics, antibiotics, mineral waters, and other products without visible large particles. Different drugs require different nozzles, so oil medicines are used to treat the upper respiratory tract, you need to use a special spray nozzle with it.

Features:

• equipped with masks and attachments for children and adults;
• used by the patient in any position, including lying down.
• works continuously for up to 60 minutes, which allows for long-term effective procedures.

Users note some difficulties in using the device on their own. Before use, you must carefully study the instructions.

The compact nebulizer has a large internal medicine reservoir. It is convenient to measure the refueling on the scale on the flask. The device can be used by children and adults. It differs from the previous model in its budgetary price and easy operation.

Features of the model:

• an intuitive control system that even a child can understand;
• consumables, including filters, are included in the kit;
• parts of the device are easily disassembled for washing and storage.

The generated particles enter the pulmonary alveoli. The device allows you to treat the upper and lower respiratory organs.

In eighth place is an inhaler for the home, which is positioned by the manufacturer as a reliable and safe device for use by all family members. For easy portability, the device is equipped with a handle on the body. Started by pressing one button.

Features:

• powerful compressor ensures effective procedures;
• particle size adjustable from one to six microns;
• it is not prohibited to use antibiotics, antiseptics, hormonal, steroid and mucolytic agents.

The device shows high efficiency during the treatment of laryngitis, rhinosinusitis, tuberculosis, tracheitis, and many other diseases of the bronchopulmonary system.

The best baby inhalers and nebulizers

The lightweight and compact nebulizer for children is made in a bright and interesting design. To keep the children entertained during the session, two colored accessories in the form of a bear and a bunny are included. If you fix them with a mask or nozzle, the treatment process for the child will turn into a game.

Features:

• spray size and flow rate are designed for the child's body;
• suitable for children of all ages, from infancy;
• almost silent work, children are not afraid.

With the help of the device, you can do inhalations with any drugs, except for oils and herbal decoctions.

European developers did not attach gaming accessories, like Omron did, but made the nebulizer itself in the form of a toy train. Real healing steam comes out of the pipe. Despite the "frivolous" appearance, the compressor apparatus copes well with the treatment of diseases of the bronchopulmonary system in newborns, children of different ages and adults.

Features:

• thoughtful, lightweight design, nothing more;
• the possibility of using medicinal preparations of different spectrum of action;
• the device can be disinfected by boiling.

Children like the design very much, they perceive the inhalation procedure as a game.

Children's nebulizer, made in the form of a funny penguin, works on the basis of ultrasonic technology and is completely silent. Holds 3.5 ml less medicine than the previous model. It is used to treat all parts of the respiratory tract.

Features:

• equipped with a timer and air flow regulator;
• works with any water-based solutions;
• equipped with three modes of work intensity.

The lightweight and convenient device can be used at home and when traveling.

A compact steam inhaler in the shape of a Burenka evokes positive emotions in children. Acts according to the good old principle that our grandmothers used to treat their children, making them breathe over the steam of boiled potatoes.

Features:

• relief of symptoms occurs 5-7 minutes after the start of inhalation;
• produces steam at a stable temperature of + 43 ℃;
• small dimensions and low weight allow you to take the device on trips and use it as first aid for colds.

This children's The device does not have as many functions as the previous model, but with its help you can quickly relieve symptoms of bronchitis, flu, laryngitis, sinusitis, seasonal allergies.

Best Mesh Nebulizer

The Xiaomi nebulizer was developed with the participation of leading pulmonologists. It has a beautiful design and miniature dimensions. Easy to use and can be activated at the touch of a button. Produces a low-disperse aerosol that can penetrate deep into the lungs.

Features:

• equipped with masks of different sizes, can be used for the whole family;
• works independently from a battery that is charged via the USB port;
• high quality of the product ensures long-term operation without breakdowns.

The device can be used for the prevention of acute respiratory infections, the treatment of asthma, bronchitis, allergic manifestations in children, adults and the elderly.

The device is used for almost all pathologies of the respiratory system, contraindications are rare. Provides the procedure for 20 minutes, then you need to take a break. Due to its compactness and low weight, you can carry it with you in a handbag, carry a car in the glove compartment.

Features:

• when the medicine in the reservoir runs out, it turns off automatically;
• inhalations can be carried out with the device tilted;
• the container for the medicinal solution is hermetically sealed.

When choosing this device, it is necessary to take into account that the mesh-membranes must be changed from time to time, they are expensive. It is better to buy such a device for an adult who needs procedures not only at home, but on the road.

Best ultrasonic nebulizers

The device is intended for inhalation at home and in physiotherapy rooms. The medicinal solution is crushed to an aerosol state and penetrates into the farthest parts of the respiratory tract.

Features:

• high spray rate and high aerosol flow rate;
• large volume of the reservoir for the medication (12 ml);
• there are no age restrictions in using the device.

It is impossible to conduct hormone therapy sessions for the treatment of bronchial asthma, use antibiotics and a number of bacteriological drugs on this apparatus. For these purposes, other models from our rating are purchased (for example, AND UN-233AC-M or Xiaomi Andon VP-M3A).

Unlike the previous nebulizer, which is successfully used in physiotherapy rooms, the Medisana device is intended exclusively for home therapy of the respiratory system. It works silently, almost all the solution in the tank is used.

Features:

• the device is powered by AA batteries and belongs to the mobile category;
• it is possible to carry out two types of inhalations through a mask or mouthpiece;
• automatically turns off at the end of the session, no need to track the inhalation time.

The device effectively maintains health all year round and helps to avoid more serious treatments.

The device allows for inhalation and aromatherapy. You can load medicine into the container and do full-fledged physiotherapy procedures for the lungs and bronchi. The aromatic oil is used as an antiseptic, sedative or tonic.

Features:

• the spray chamber is equipped with a backlight to control the drug level;
• the ability to load a wide range of sprayed substances, solutions, decoctions;
• increases the comfort of the procedure by heating the aerosol.

The device can be used to treat seriously ill people while sleeping. Local illumination on the nebulizer is sufficient for the procedure in a dark room.

***

The rating of inhalers and nebulizers is presented for informational purposes only, informs about the capabilities of the devices and does NOT replace the mandatory consultation of a doctor.