Using a Nebulizer (Adult)

A nebulizer turns a liquid medicine into a fine and constant mist. This is breathed into the lungs. You breathe the mist in through a mask or a mouthpiece. It is important to take your medicine as directed by your healthcare provider. To use your nebulizer, follow the steps below.

With a mask

Woman inhaling medication through nebulizer facemask on face.

  • Wash your hands.

  • Check the expiration date on your medicine to make sure it is not expired.

  • Fill the medicine cup with your prescribed dose. Attach the top as directed.

  • Connect one end of the tubing to the medicine cup. Connect the other end to the nebulizer.

  • Attach the mask to the cup.

  • Place the mask over your nose and mouth. Make sure it fits well over your nose and mouth.

  • Turn on the nebulizer.

  • Breathe through your mouth as directed by your healthcare provider. This may mean taking a normal breath. Or you may need to take slow, deep breaths. Keep the nebulizer upright, until all the medicine is gone. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

  • When the medicine is gone, take the mask off and turn the nebulizer off.

  • If using an inhaled corticosteroid, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out. Also wash your face.

  • Wash your hands again when you are done.

  • Use paper towels or a clean, dry towel.

  • Follow your provider's instructions or the directions on the package insert for cleaning the nebulizer and the mask.

If you are not sure about any of these steps, talk with your healthcare provider.

With a mouthpiece

Woman inhaling medication from nebulizer with mouthpiece.

  • Wash your hands.

  • Check the expiration date on your medicine to make sure it is not expired.

  • Fill the medicine cup with your prescribed dose. Attach the top as directed.

  • Connect one end of the tubing to the medicine cup. Connect the other end to the nebulizer.

  • Attach the mouthpiece to the cup.

  • Put the mouthpiece between your teeth. Close your lips around it to form a tight seal. Keep your tongue under the mouthpiece.

  • Turn on the nebulizer.

  • Breathe through the mouthpiece as directed by your healthcare provider. This may mean taking a normal breath. Or you may need to take slow, deep breaths. Keep the nebulizer upright until all the medicine is gone. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

  • When the medicine is gone, take the mouthpiece out of your mouth and turn the nebulizer off.

  • If using an inhaled corticosteroid, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out.

  • Wash your hands again when you are done.

  • Follow your provider's instructions or the directions on the package insert for cleaning the nebulizer and the mouthpiece.

If you are not sure about any of these steps, talk with your healthcare provider.