Key characteristics of different device types3,6,7
| Characteristics | pMDIs | DPIs | SMIs | Nebulizers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Requires coordination between actuation and inhalation (which can be eased when used in conjunction with a spacer, or by using a breath-actuated pMDI) | Varies; they are generally breath-actuated and do not require coordination between actuation and inhalation | Requires assembly and coordination between actuation and inhalation | No specific breathing techniques have to be taught for using nebulizers |
| Suitable for maintenance or reliever medication | Reliever and maintenance | Reliever and maintenance | Reliever and maintenance | Reliever and maintenance |
| Treatment time | Short | Short | Short | Longer than pMDIs / DPIs (duration depends on nebulizer device type) |
| Portability | High | High | High | Depends on type |
| Multi-dose device | Yes | Some DPIs | Yes | No |
| Dose counter | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Abbreviations: DPIs, dry powder inhalers; pMDIs, pressurized metered-dose inhalers; SMIs, soft mist inhalers.