Comparison of pressurized metered dose inhalers with holding chamber, dry powder inhalers, and nebulizers as aerosol delivery devices

	pMDI/HC	DPIs	Nebulizer
Performance
Majority of aerosol particles <5 micrometers in size	+	+	±
High pulmonary deposition	+	±	±
Low mouth deposition	+	±	–
Reliability of dose	+	±	±
Not compromised by humidity	+	–	+
Physical and chemical stability	+	+	+
Breath actuated	–	+	–
Low risk of contamination	+	+	–
Convenience
Lightweight, compact	+	+	–
Multiple doses	+	+	–
Dose counter	±	+	–
Easy and quick operation	±	±	–
Suitable for all ages	+	–	+

pMDI: pressurized metered-dose inhaler; HC: holding chamber; DPI: dry powder inhaler.

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