Aerosols: everything you need to know to choose the right device

Aerosol therapy, commonly referred to as "aerosol," is a technique for administering medications to alleviate symptoms and treat various respiratory diseases or allergies.
The term "aerosol" generally refers both to the type of therapy and the device used to perform it; in fact, the correct name for the electronic device used for aerosol therapy would be "nebulizer," based on the type of action it performs.

How the nebulizer or aerosol works and which respiratory diseases can be treated

The nebulizer transports a liquid and a gas - in this case, the medication and air - creating a mist of micro-droplets, also called particles, that can reach the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, trachea, bronchi, and lungs without passing through the mouth.

This allows medications to be used in smaller doses, thus reducing side effects, as the medication directly targets the affected organs of the respiratory system rather than dispersing to other parts of the body.
The effectiveness of aerosol therapy depends on how much medication can correctly reach the airways, and this primarily varies based on the type of device and its ability to generate particles of the appropriate size. Particles are measured in MMAD – (Mass Median Aerodynamic Diameter) with units in micrometers (μm). The finer the particles coming out of the nebulizer, the better the quality of the aerosol therapy device or aerosol, as we are accustomed to calling these medical devices.

Aerosols can treat various respiratory diseases, from seasonal illnesses and allergies to more serious conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, and pneumonia.

What happens to the airways when one has a respiratory disease?

The airways are divided into upper and lower:

- Upper airways: nose, mouth, larynx, and trachea
- Lower airways: bronchi, bronchioles, bronchial mucous membranes, and alveoli.

The airways in our body act as "pipes" through which air passes, and when you have a respiratory disease, these pipes narrow or get blocked. The causes can be various:

• Inflammation: the airways swell and fill with liquid, making it difficult to breathe.
• Mucus: the body produces mucus to eliminate foreign substances, but sometimes this mucus can block the airways.
• Muscle contraction: in cases like asthma, the muscles around the airways contract, making them even narrower.

Depending on the type of respiratory problem being treated, the doctor may prescribe medications that make it easier to breathe and keep the airways open and clear, such as:

• Mucolytics: dissolve mucus, making it easier to expel, thus improving breathing.
• Bronchodilators: relax and widen the muscles of the airways, making it easier for air to pass.
• Anticholinergics: work similarly to bronchodilators, relaxing the muscles of the airways, but they act differently by blocking certain nerve signals.
  A frequently used category for various therapies and often in the case of asthma is corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation, lower swelling, and have fewer side effects.

Because aerosol therapy is a targeted treatment, self-treatment is strongly discouraged; it is important to consult a doctor, and in the case of children under 14 years old, a pediatrician, who after careful evaluation will prescribe the medication, doses, and frequency of administration based on the disease being treated and the patient’s age.

How many types of aerosol devices are there?

Piston Aerosol or Compressor Aerosol

• How it works: uses a compressor to nebulize the liquid medication through compressed air.
• Particle size: typically between 1 and 5 microns, ideal for both upper and lower airways.
• Indications: Suitable for a wide range of respiratory diseases, asthma, bronchitis, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), cold.
• Advantages:
  - Compatible with all medications, including corticosteroids, antibiotics, and hyaluronic acid
  - Suitable for the whole family: infants, children, adults, and elderly
  - Various models on the market: from traditional home-use models to portable ones with a rechargeable battery for use outside the home.
• Disadvantages: Traditional models are suitable for home use and may be slightly noisier compared to other models.

Ultrasound Aerosol

• How it works: uses high-frequency sound waves to turn the liquid medication into nebulized particles.
• Particle size: generally finer (1-3 microns), ideal for reaching the lower airways (bronchi and alveoli).
• Indications: excellent for conditions like asthma or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
• Advantages:
  - Silent and fast.
  - Compact and often portable.
• Disadvantages:
  - Not suitable for medications like corticosteroids or antibiotics, as the heat can alter them.
  - Less effective with thicker or oily medications, not suitable for hyaluronic acid.
  - Very expensive.

Mesh Technology Aerosol

• How it works: A vibrating membrane with micropores nebulizes the medication into very fine particles, keeping the liquid at room temperature.
• Particle size: From 1 to 5 microns, ideal for both upper and lower airways.
• Indications: Suitable for treating asthma, bronchitis, cold, and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Compatible with almost all medications.
• Advantages:
  - Silent, portable, and lightweight.
  - Effective for children, infants, and the whole family.
• Disadvantages:
  - More expensive than piston models.
  - The Mesh membrane requires thorough cleaning to avoid blockages, but some models are self-cleaning.
  - Not suitable for hyaluronic acid.

How to choose the right aerosol device?

When comparing aerosol devices, the key parameters to consider are:

• MMAD (Mass Median Aerodynamic Diameter)
• Particle size
• Respirable fraction

NuvitaMed aerosol devices are designed for the care of the entire respiratory system and are Class IIA medical devices, meaning they meet high standards of design, manufacturing, and quality control. This ensures that the aerosols are safe for health and effective in their use.

Among the piston aerosol models (also called compressor aerosol) that can nebulize all types of medications, the NuvitaMED 5023 or the NuvitaMED 5020 devices are suitable for the whole family for treatments of the entire respiratory system. They are primarily used at home since they connect to a power outlet; with the same piston technology, the portable version like the NuvitaMED 5030, a very small model with a rechargeable lithium battery that fits comfortably in a purse or backpack for convenient use outside the home, while traveling, at work, or on vacation.

The latest innovation in terms of technology and ease of use is the wearable aerosol devices with Mesh technology, which leave hands free during therapy. This makes it possible to continue working, playing, cooking, and at the same time treating the health of children and adults without the excuse of having to sit still.

Nuvitamed 5078, in addition to being super comfortable and lightweight, has an innovative self-cleaning system that activates automatically after each use, avoiding the need for manual cleaning.

Here is a comparative analysis of the three NuvitaMed aerosol models

NuvitaMed 5023 model with piston technology

- MMAD: 3-5 microns
- Particle size: 0.5 to 5 microns ±0.5 microns
- Respirable fraction: 80%

Explanation and recommended use
This device generates particles ranging from 0.5 to 5 microns, with an MMAD of 3-5 microns.
Particles between 1 and 5 microns are considered ideal for reaching the lower airways (bronchi and bronchioles).
With a respirable fraction of 80%, a large portion of the emitted particles effectively reach the lungs.
This device is suitable for treatments requiring deep penetration into the airways, and is ideal for upper and lower respiratory tract treatments, such as pharyngitis, laryngitis, and bronchitis. The particle size allows good penetration into the bronchi, making it effective for patients with asthma or COPD. As a traditional piston model, it is suitable for regular home use, but less practical for portability. Among the features are the adjustable ampoule for selecting the medication flow rate and its quieter operation compared to other models in its category.

NuvitaMed 5030 with piston technology – portable model

- MMAD: ≤3.5 microns
- Particle size: 0.35 micron ±25%
- Respirable fraction: 80%

Explanation and recommended use
MMAD of ≤3.5 microns indicates that this device produces very small particles, suitable for treatments of the lower airways (bronchi and alveoli). Smaller particles (such as 0.35 microns) can reach deep into the lungs, including the alveoli, making this device particularly effective for conditions like asthma, COPD or deep respiratory infections.
With a respirable fraction of 80%, the system ensures that a large portion of particles reaches the desired area in the lungs, and thanks to its portability, it is suitable for outdoor use, providing performance and effectiveness similar to traditional home models.

NuvitaMed 5078 with Mesh technology – portable model

- MMAD: 5 microns ±25%
- Particle size: 5 microns ±25%
- Respirable fraction: 75%

Explanation and recommended use:
Particles of this size are more suitable for treating the upper airways (nose, pharynx, and trachea), as larger particles tend to settle in these areas rather than in the deeper parts of the lungs.
A respirable fraction of 75% means that most of the emitted particles are effective and more suitable for treatments of the upper airways or conditions requiring less penetration. It is better suited for treating upper airways such as rhinitis, sinusitis, or pharyngitis, and less effective for deep bronchi or alveoli.
Thanks to the Mesh technology and the portable design, this model is perfect for patients on the go, such as children or adults needing quick treatments. Excellent for those who desire practicality, quiet operation, and freedom of movement during therapy.

Conclusion and buying guide for the best NuvitaMed aerosol for infants, children, and the whole family

All three models provide effective nebulization but stand out due to features that make them more suitable for specific situations:

• NuvitaMed 5023 with piston technology: Ideal for regular home use and for those needing comprehensive treatment for both upper and lower airways. Its quiet operation and adjustable ampoule increase comfort, though it is less portable.
• NuvitaMed 5030 with piston technology (portable): Ideal for those who need effective deep airway nebulization (bronchi and alveoli) but don't want to sacrifice portability. Offers performance similar to home models, with the added benefit of being usable outside the home.
• NuvitaMed 5078 with Mesh technology (portable): Designed mainly for upper airway treatments, thanks to the larger particles. The compact design and Mesh technology make it quiet and practical, perfect for those who need movement freedom during therapy or require frequent and fast treatments.

The final choice depends on the specific treatment needs, the area of the airways to be treated, and the required level of practicality or portability. Choosing the right aerosol device can make a significant difference for more effective and comfortable treatments.
If you don't already have an aerosol device at home, many delay the purchase until the first treatment is needed; however, it's worth being informed to make a better choice. Find the aerosol model best suited to your family here.