COMPARISON OF DRUG-DELIVERY FROM CONVENTIONAL VERSUS VENTURI NEBULIZERS

Attempts to improve drug delivery from conventional jet nebulizers hav e included the use of storage systems to reduce drug wastage during ex halation. Venturi nebulizers enhance drug delivery during inhalation, reducing treatment times and drug wastage, This study investigated the effect of age on inhaled dose from a conventional jet nebulizer (Acor n(R)) used both with and without a storage chamber (Mizer(R)), compare d to two Venturi nebulizers (Ventstream(R) and Pari LC(R)). Filters we re attached to the four nebulizer systems, containing salbutamol, and 18 children with cystic fibrosis (3-16 yrs) inhaled through these devi ces, The quantity of drug collected on the filter was assessed using u ltraviolet spectrophotometry, The particle size distribution of the ae rosol from each nebulizer system was measured using laser diffraction. Inspiratory filter deposition using the Acorn(R) was lower than the A corn(R) with Mizer(R), and both Venturi nebulizers. Filter deposition using the Acorn(R) with Mizer(R) was lower than the Pari LC(R). No tre nd with age, height or weight was noted using any nebulizer, Aerosol p article size using the Ventstream(R) was lower than the other nebulize r systems. Drug output from both Venturi nebulizers was more efficient than from the jet nebulizer, used with and without the storage chambe r, during inhalation by children with cystic fibrosis. The inhaled dos e did not change with the patient's age or size using both types of ne bulizer.