
The liquid medicines used in nebulizer treatments are known as nebulizer medications. They are used to treat conditions such as asthma and other respiratory diseases.
Nebulizer is a device that turns liquid medication into a mist for inhalation, the liquid is turned to a mist using pressurized or compressed air. These treatments are mostly used on children, as they find it difficult to use the inhalers. This treatment option aids in allowing the medication to reach the airways and the patient feels immediate relief during and after the treatment that usually lasts for 5 to 10 minutes.
Depending on the kind of medication, and sometimes, the severity of the breathing condition or complication of the patient, the treatment is advised to be inhaled more than 2 to 3 times a day. Nebulizers can be classified into a couple of categories depending on what sort of treatment is the patient seeking, the nebulizer medications varies if the patient is looking for quick-relief, and again, it is different when they are looking for a preventive long-term solution, which prevents the asthma attacks from occurring frequently.
List of Nebulizers
With new drugs entering the market on a regular basis, it is quite difficult to make a comprehensive list of the medications. However, you can refer to the list below to understand the different kinds of medications that are used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma. Nebulizer medications are used to control or to treat asthma consists of both anti-inflammatory medications that includes steroids and bronchodilators. Do not panic with the term ‘steroids’, it is not the same steroids that are used by athletes and sports persons. These steroids simply helps the patients to get relief clearing of the airways. Given below is the list of some of the common medications for asthma.
Albuterol
Albuterol is a bronchodilator that eases the breathing process of the patient by relaxing the muscles in the airway and by increasing airflow to the lungs. It is used to treat bronchospasm with a reversible obstructive airway diseases, such as asthma and bronchitis. As some people might be allergic to this, it should only be taken after checking with an expert or a doctor.
Those who have conditions, such as a heart disease, thyroid problem, diabetes, etc., should inform the doctor of the same. This would help the doctor to ascertain if the medication should be prescribed to you and what should be the dosage for the treatment. To be safe, it is better to inform the doctor of any existing condition. The common brand names associated with this medication include Proventil, Ventolin, and Accuneb.
Levalbuterol
This is a bronchodilator again that improves breathing by relaxing strained muscles in the airway and is used for conditions, like asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis. As a general rule, before taking any such medicine, inform and discuss any existing condition with the doctor. For those with an existing health condition, the dosage would be adjusted accordingly. Xoponex is a common brand name associated with levalbuterol.
Budesonide Inhalation
It is an anti-inflammatory medication or a steroid that can only prevent asthma attacks and is not useful in treating an asthma attack that has already begun. If you are allergic to any medication or if you have conditions, such as osteoporosis, liver disease, tuberculosis, herpes simplex eye infection or any bacterial, viral, or fungal infection should be informed to the doctor. A common brand for this medication is Pulmicort Flexhaler and Pulmicort Respules.
Ipratropium Inhalation
This is used on people with bronchitis or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to prevent bronchospasm. Those with bladder obstruction or enlarged prostate should inform the doctor to get the right dosage. Consuming large dosage could lead to further complications. Atrovent is a known brand name for this medication.
Please note that all the above mentioned medications should only be used or consumed after consulting with the doctor and not without being prescribed by them. Treatment should always be administered by an expert in the nebulization procedure. Nebulizer treatments for infants should be avoided to be undertaken at home even where the parents are trained to do so. An immediate medical attention in cases of any complications could be better taken care of at the hospital as compared to a domestic environment.
Disclaimer: This HealthHearty article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.