Nebulizer systems: a new frontier for therapeutics and targeted delivery

Ther Deliv. 2022 Jan;13(1):31-49. doi: 10.4155/tde-2021-0070. Epub 2021 Nov 12.

Abstract

Drug delivery via the pulmonary route is a cornerstone in the pharmaceutical sector as an alternative to oral and parenteral administration. Nebulizer inhalation treatment offers multiple drug administration, easily employed with tidal breathing, suitable for children and elderly, can be adapted for severe patients and visible spray ensures patient satisfaction. This review discusses the operational and mechanical characteristics of nebulizer delivery devices in terms of aerosol production processes, their usage, benefits and drawbacks that are currently shaping the contemporary landscape of inhaled drug delivery. With the advent of particle engineering, novel inhaled nanosystems can be successfully developed to increase lung deposition and decrease pulmonary clearance. The above-mentioned advances might pave the path for treating a life-threatening disorder like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which is also discussed in the current state of the art.

Keywords: aerosol delivery; inhalation therapy; nebulizer; pulmonary drug delivery; respiratory diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Inhalation
  • Aerosols
  • Aged
  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Drug Delivery Systems*
  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Lung
  • Nebulizers and Vaporizers
  • SARS-CoV-2

Substances

  • Aerosols
  • Bronchodilator Agents