| abstract |
The invention relates to a nebulizer of simple three-piece construction, adapted by its design to be injection molded for delivering to a patient, entrained in a stream of oxygen or other gas flowing at a modest rate (such as 6 to 8 liters a minute) a quantity of liquid supplied from a unit-dose hermetically sealed vial. The entire nebulizer with unit-dose vial attached, fits the hand of the patient, and its small size and the use of a unit-dose vial simplifies self-administration by an out-patient. Also disclosed is an adapter for connecting the nebulizer to a mouthpiece, with means permitting the patient to control the concentration of the mist delivered to the lungs. |