Nebulizer Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Reduce Risk

Nebulizers put medicine right into your airways, so they work fast. That’s great when you need relief, but some people notice unwanted effects. This guide lists the most common side effects, explains why they happen, and gives clear steps to lower the risk. Read on if you use a nebulizer for asthma, COPD, or other lung issues.

Common side effects and why they happen

Throat irritation and cough are the most frequent complaints. Mist from the nebulizer can dry or irritate throat tissues. If the medicine lands in the throat instead of deep in the lungs, you might cough right after treatment.

Some medications cause tremors, a fast heartbeat, or jitters. Short-acting bronchodilators like albuterol relax airway muscles but can also stimulate the heart and cause shaking, especially at higher doses.

Oral thrush or local infections can appear when inhaled steroids are used often. The steroid can lower local immunity in the mouth and throat, allowing fungi to grow.

Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness may show up after a session. These can come from the medication, from breathing faster during treatment, or from anxiety about the procedure.

Rare but serious reactions include severe allergic responses or worsening breathing soon after treatment. If your breathing gets worse, seek help right away.

Simple ways to reduce side effects

Always follow the dose your clinician prescribes. Don’t increase frequency without checking in. Proper dosing reduces both local and systemic effects.

Use a mouthpiece instead of a mask when possible. A mouthpiece helps direct the medicine into the lungs, which lowers throat exposure and reduces coughing and oral side effects.

Rinse your mouth with water and spit after using inhaled steroids. This simple action cuts the chance of thrush a lot. Brush your teeth if you can.

Clean and dry your nebulizer parts after each use. Bacteria and mold grow in damp equipment and can cause infections or lung irritation. Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning steps.

If your heart races or you feel shaky after bronchodilator use, sit down and breathe slowly. Call your provider if symptoms are strong or do not pass. Sometimes the dose or medication needs to change.

Talk to your doctor about other drugs you take. Some pills or supplements can increase side effects when combined with nebulized meds.

For children and older adults, start with supervised use until you know how the person reacts. Watch for changes in behavior, feeding, sleep, or breathing.

If you notice fever, persistent cough, new wheeze, chest pain, or swelling, get medical help right away. Those signs may point to infection or a serious reaction.

Using a nebulizer is safe for most people when you follow instructions, keep equipment clean, and report problems early. Small changes—like using a mouthpiece or rinsing after steroids—make a big difference in comfort and safety.