Squeeze-bulb nebulizers

Fig. 1 Drug delivery devices. (A) Squeezing bulb nebulizers (courtesy of Bruce McVeety) and (B) pMDIs.

Using aerosolization to administer drugs to the respiratory airway dates back to the early part of the 20th century, when the pneumatic nebulizer was used as a drug delivery device. Fig. lA shows some examples of the first types of nebulizers used, the simplest of which were powered by squeezing the bulb attached to the device. Fig.IB shows more modern imits such as pMDIs. 

In 1945, the introduction of penicillin was followed swiftly by attempts to nebulize it directly to the lungs. A device know as the Deedon inhaler (Moore Medicinal Products Ltd., Aberdeen, Scotland) was a neat, hand-held inhaler made entirely from plastic and intended for the administration of penicillin or antispasmodics. It was suggested that the fine mist of penicillin was likely to penetrate as far as the small bronchi and bronchioles. Penicillin, in 30% glycerine, placed in the reservoir was administered in 6 to 7 min by squeezing the rubber bulb at each inspiration. The makers also advertised an electric pump, at a... 

To produce the aerosol, the nebulizer bulb is firmly squeezed so that the bulb collapses completely, and is then released and allowed to fully expand. 

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