Inhaler vs Nebuliser: What’s the difference?
If you are reading this blog then it’s likely you have, or know someone with, a respiratory condition like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). You will probably also have heard of inhalers and nebulisers. Both are devices designed to deliver medication directly to your lungs, but they do it in very different ways. Understanding these differences can help you and your respiratory healthcare professional choose the best option for your needs.
What Are Nebulisers & Inhalers
Inhaler:
A handheld device that delivers a measured dose of medicine in liquid aerosol or dry powder form. You breathe in the medication quickly and deeply so it reaches your lungs. There are two main types:
- Metered-Dose Inhalers (MDIs) – small pressurised containers that release a fine spray when triggered.
- Dry Powder Inhalers (DPIs) – small devices containing powdered medicine you inhale forcefully.
Nebuliser:
A machine that turns liquid medicine into a fine mist, which you breathe in through a mask or mouthpiece. Instead of relying on your ability to take a quick & deep breath at the right time, a nebuliser slowly delivers medication over several minutes. There are two main types:
- Compressor nebulisers - Use compressed air to turn liquid medication into a mist, e.g. the PARI COMPACT2
- Mesh Nebulisers- Use a vibrating mesh (with microscopic holes) to create a mist, e.g. the VELOX
Did you know? Some nebulisers waste a lot of medicine into the air, so using an efficient one is important!
How Do Nebulisers & Inhalers Work
- Inhaler: Uses your breath (and sometimes a propellant) to deliver medication quickly. The dose is typically taken in a matter of seconds.
- Nebuliser: Uses compressed air flow or mesh technology to create a mist from liquid medicine, which you inhale over several minutes.
How easy are Nebulisers & Inhalers to Use
Inhaler:
- Pros: Small, portable, quick.
- Cons: Requires correct technique and training — breathing at the right time and speed is crucial for the medicine to work well.
Nebuliser:
- Pros: No special coordination needed, therefore easier than inhalers for children, elderly, or people with severe breathing difficulties. Can be relaxing as encourage slow, deep breathing.
- Cons: Bulky, need electricity or batteries, and take longer to deliver a dose of medicine.
Did you know? Your local pharmacist can check you are using your inhaler correctly.
When Are Nebulisers & Inhalers Typically Used
- Inhaler: A ‘reliever’ inhaler is used for quick relief during flare-ups, or a ‘preventer’ inhaler can be prescribed for daily use. There are also combination inhalers available that combine both preventer and reliever medicines in one.
- Nebuliser: Often used during severe flare-ups, in hospital settings, or at home when higher doses are needed. Can also be used to deliver saline to keep the airways moist, or to aid mucus clearance.
Maintenance of Nebulisers & Inhalers
- Inhaler: Usually needs little maintenance — just cleaning the mouthpiece. They are available on prescription from your doctor.
- Nebuliser: Requires regular cleaning and disinfection of parts to prevent infection. The parts need replacing at regular intervals, e.g. with a Year Pack.
Which One Is Right for You? Nebuliser or Inhaler?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your choice depends on:
- Age and ability – young children and frail or elderly patients may benefit from a nebuliser.
- Lifestyle – active people may prefer an inhaler for portability.
- Type of respiratory condition – nebulisers can deliver a large amount of medicine, useful for conditions like cystic fibrosis.
- Severity of symptoms – frequent flare-ups might require nebuliser treatment.
- Personal preference – you are more likely to regularly use a device that you like.
- Professional advice – your healthcare professional will match the device to your condition and abilities.
Both inhalers and nebulisers do the same job — getting medication to your lungs — but in different ways. An inhaler is like a quick dash, while a nebuliser is more of a steady walk. The right choice depends on your health needs, your ability to use the device correctly, and your daily routine. Above all, always follow the advice of your healthcare professional.
