Question: Hi doc, I would like to ask the side effect of nebulizer on babies. My twin babies were born premature (born 31 weeks, now almost 6 months old) and have been given treatment of nebulizer when they were 3 (11 days treatment) and now (its been 3 days and counting). Would this cause babies lungs to rely on the neb?
Answer: some doctors used different medication in the nebulizer. Often , in certain cases , I use only saline (special water , not medication) to loosen the secretion in the baby’s airway. Some may use salbutamol , a medication that is used to open up the airways. It is not dangerous but need to be used with caution, It can cause rapid heart rate, which often settle after a while. Taking periodically during time of illness, say every 4 hours or so does not cause any problem most of the time. If used continuously for a long period may cause a mineral (potassium ) in the blood to be depleted. It is a drug we often used and it helps many babies and sick children, or else they have difficulty in breathing . Having said that , not all children with breathing problem needs nebulizer. Even how many times the child takes it , the lungs will not be dependent on it but rather that means the child has an underlying problem with hypersensitive airways which needs treatment . I am sure your child is under Paediatric follow up as he was born prematurely . Do discuss with your doctor ok. Cheers.