How to choose a nebulizer and how to care for it

How to choose a nebulizer

The nebulizer that can be used for GM-CSF inhalation therapy is a “jet type” or “mesh type.”

The advantage of jet nebulizers is that they have a relatively simple structure and are less prone to failure. It is also easy to disinfect. The disadvantage is that the mist cannot be produced without a compressor (pump).

Mesh-type nebulizers have limitations in how they can be used, such as the mesh part having to be replaced regularly and being difficult to clean. However, once you get used to using it, it produces a much thicker mist than the jet type. Since there is no compressor, it is easy to carry.

GM-CSF inhalation therapy is continued for at least 24 weeks, and for up to a year, so troubles due to malfunctions often occur. It is a good idea to keep a spare nebulizer and compressor on hand for the jet type and a spare mesh for the mesh type.
For nebulizers purchased online, there are cases where the manufacturer or distributor does not provide sufficient support for malfunctions or after-sales care.
Keep in mind that an important point when choosing an inhaler is the availability of after-sales support and troubleshooting.

How to care for your nebulizer

One course of GM-CSF inhalation therapy takes 24 weeks. Since you use a nebulizer every day, if you leave it unused, there is a high possibility that mold and bacteria will grow and it will become unsanitary. Be sure to wash and dry it each time after use.
Cleaning and disinfecting are performed by disassembling the nebulizer into its parts.

As an example, we will explain the Paris LC Sprint Star nebulizer.

How to disassemble a nebulizer

Disassemble each part of the nebulizer according to the following steps.

After each use of the nebulizer, be sure to clean all parts (excluding the air supply hose) to remove any chemical adhesion or dirt.

Remove air hoses (G and A) from the nebulizer.
Turn the nebulizer top (C) counterclockwise to remove the nebulizer bottom (F) and pull out the nozzle insert (D).
Open the lid (B) on the top (C) of the nebulizer.
Carefully pull out the exhalation valve of mouthpiece (A) from the hole so as not to damage it.

Cleaning the nebulizer

Carefully wash all parts of the disassembled nebulizer (except the air hose) using warm water and a small amount of mild detergent. Remove stubborn dirt with a clean brush.

Carefully rinse all parts with lukewarm water and shake off any remaining water droplets. At this time, be sure to hold the lid firmly with your hand to avoid damaging the lid hinges. When washing in the dishwasher, do not wash together with dishes.

Disinfecting the nebulizer

If the nebulizer is dirty, the disinfection effect will be reduced, so please clean it before disinfecting it. Disinfect all parts of the cleaned nebulizer (except the air hose) once a week.

Boiling sterilization (minimum 5 minutes)

Disinfect all parts of the cleaned nebulizer (except the air hose) by boiling for at least 5 minutes. Please ensure sufficient hot water so that all parts are submerged in hot water.

Disinfection with disinfectant

Disinfect for 60 minutes by soaking in water diluted 20 times with a disinfectant solution (Milton) suitable for plastics (polypropylene/TPE), and then be sure to rinse with water. Please note that leaving it soaked in disinfectant will cause the plastic to deteriorate.

Drying

Shake off any water droplets remaining on the parts. At this time, be sure to hold the lid firmly with your hand to avoid damaging the lid hinges. Place all parts of the sterilized nebulizer on a piece of clean gauze and allow them to dry completely.

Storage

If treatment is discontinued for an extended period of time, store the nebulizer in a shallow Tupperware container, with the lid on, in a dry, dust-free environment out of direct sunlight.