What is the difference between Inhaler and Nebulizer?

When it comes to some respiratory disorders, sometimes such as Cystic Fibrosis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and asthma, the medicine recommended is the practice of inhalation. Two devices used in administering this inhalation medicine for prevention or relief are the inhaler and nebulizer. Inhalers are also referred to as puffers; they are devices that can be easily handled, usually made with metal and primarily plastic.

They are in the form of a pressurized tin canister which when the stuff is pressed, the medicine solution is released in a fixed measure. A plastic add-on referred to as "spacer" is usually used in-between the canister and the mouth of the patient to aid inhaling. A nebulizer is a huge device into which air or oxygen is compressed and passed through its tube to the mouthpiece to the patient. A nebulizer is actually costlier and used mainly in the hospital, as it is not portable like an inhaler.

Inhalers and Nebulizers are the devices used to deliver fast-quick rescue medicines or long-term maintenance medicines directly into the lungs. Inhalers and Nebulizers are known to have distinct characteristics, and they are as follows: a. Size and Nature: Inhalers are portable handheld devices While Nebulizers are electric-powered or battery-powered machines. Nebulizers usually vary in size and can be bit large and creaky. b. Mode of Operation: Inhalers are available in two forms: Dry powder inhalers and Metered dose inhalers (MDI). The form of the inhaler determines its mode of operation.

The dry powder form works by delivering medicine in the powder form. The powdered medicine is inhaled deeply and quickly to ensure the effective working of the inhaler. While the Metered dose inhaler works by pushing out a spray of medicine as the aerosol can. In contrast, Nebulizers work by converting the liquid medicine into a fine mist that can be sprayed. This medicine is usually sprayed out through the tube attached to the facemask.