Background: To overcome the limitations of conventional jet nebulizers, vibrating mesh technology has been commercialized. The present article is designed to address clinically relevant issues for routine aerosol therapy for a vibrating mesh nebulizer, the Omron NE U22, compared to traditional jet nebulizers.
Methods: Inhaled mass (IM), residual activity, particle distribution, including mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) and run time, were determined for radiolabeled albuterol (2.5 mg/3 mL). Omron NE U22, Pari LC Plus, and Sidestream nebulizers were tested. The Omron was tested in two positions, tilted and horizontal. Finally robustness of the Omron NE U22 was determined by repeating treatment 60 times. All Omron experiments were performed using continuous operation.
Results: IM for Omron and Pari were similar (20% of nebulizer charge) and greater than the Sidestream (10%). MMADs were similar for all devices but variability was much greater for Omron in the horizontal position. Run time in the tilted position was three times longer when compared to the horizontal (p = 0.02). IM and MMAD were unchanged after Omron robustness testing.
Conclusion: Position was an important factor for the mesh device affecting run time and variability in particle distribution. Using a common commercial formulation and continuous operation, drug delivery was similar to an efficient jet nebulizer. The Omron mesh tolerated repeated use with the albuterol formulation.