title: The function and performance of aqueous aerosol devices for inhalation therapy.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In this review paper, we explore the interaction between the functioning mechanism of different nebulizers and the physicochemical properties of the formulations for several types of devices, namely jet, ultrasonic and vibrating-mesh nebulizers; colliding and extruded jets; electrohydrodynamic mechanism; surface acoustic wave microfluidic atomization; and capillary aerosol generation.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Nebulization is the transformation of bulk liquids into droplets. For inhalation therapy, nebulizers are widely used to aerosolize aqueous systems, such as solutions and suspensions. The interaction between the functioning mechanism of different nebulizers and the physicochemical properties of the formulations plays a significant role in the performance of aerosol generation appropriate for pulmonary delivery. Certain types of nebulizers have consistently presented temperature increase during the nebulization event. Therefore, careful consideration should be given when evaluating thermo-labile drugs, such as protein therapeutics. We also present the general approaches for characterization of nebulizer formulations.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In conclusion, the interplay between the dosage form (i.e. aqueous systems) and the specific type of device for aerosol generation determines the effectiveness of drug delivery in nebulization therapies, thus requiring extensive understanding and characterization.
authors.affiliation: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Drug Product Science & Technology, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
authors.forename: Thiago C
authors.initials: TC
authors.lastname: Carvalho
authors.affiliation: Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
authors.forename: Jason T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: McConville
mesh_terms: D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000336:Aerosols; D000818:Animals; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D004339:Drug Compounding; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D010316:Particle Size; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000737:chemistry; D013499:Surface Properties
chemical_list: D000336:Aerosols; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations
keywords: aerosol solution; aerosol suspension; lung targeting; nebulizer function; protein therapeutics