Nebulizers versus pressurized metered-dose inhalers in preschool children with wheezing.
OBJECTIVE
In my office, I frequently encounter children with wheezing. When I prescribe inhaled bronchodilators for preschool children, what is the recommended method of delivery--a nebulizer or a spacer?


CONCLUSIONS
The pressurized metered-dose inhaler with a spacer is an effective method of delivering inhaled drugs to young children. Children younger than 5 years of age will require the additional use of a face mask. It is best to give aerosolized medications when a child is awake. Efforts to optimize the child's cooperation with medication administration by using a spacer with an appropriate mouthpiece or face mask will also improve drug delivery.
BC Children’s Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Room K4-226, Ambulatory Care Bldg, 4480 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4, Canada.
Christine
C
Smith
Ran D
RD
Goldman
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D036501:Metered Dose Inhalers; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D012135:Respiratory Sounds / Q000187:drug effects*
D001993:Bronchodilator Agents