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Overview: You can inhale saline for nebulization into your lungs using a machine called a nebulizer to help with certain breathing problems. Saline for nebulization is usually well tolerated. Be sure you or your caregiver understands how to use, clean, and care for your nebulizer.

Uses

What is saline for nebulization used for?

Saline for nebulization is commonly used with a nebulizer to help you cough up mucus (sputum) from your lungs due to breathing problems or infections.

It can also be used as a part of your breathing treatment with other medicines for breathing problems.

Saline for nebulization may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

Other forms of sodium chloride are available. See: Saline nasal spray, Sodium Chloride (injection), Sodium Chloride ophthalmic, and Sodium Chloride (oral).

How does saline for nebulization work (mechanism of action)?

A nebulizer changes saline for nebulization from a liquid to a mist. This allows you to breathe it into your lungs. This helps add moisture to mucus to help you cough it up. It can also be mixed with certain medicines before using the nebulizer to make sure you get the right amount of medicine.

How is saline for nebulization supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • HyperSal
  • NebuSal
  • PulmoSal

Example dosage forms and strengths

  • 0.9%, 3%, 3.5%, 6%, 7% inhalation solution

How should I store saline for nebulization?

Saline for nebulization should be stored at room temperature, between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C). Avoid exposing it to excessive heat or freezing it.

Side Effects

Saline for nebulization is usually well tolerated. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that bother you.

Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of saline for nebulization?

While less common, the most serious side effects of saline for nebulization are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Saline for nebulization may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using saline for nebulization and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin calledĀ hives, which can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use saline for nebulization?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use saline for nebulization.

  • HyperSal
  • NebuSal
  • PulmoSal
  • Saline
  • Sodium chloride
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific saline for nebulization products they stock.

What should I know about saline for nebulization before using it?

Read and follow the instructions on the product you are using or use it as your health care provider recommends. Do not mix saline for nebulization with other medicines unless your health care provider tells you to do so.

Keep saline for nebulization out of the reach of children.

It is important for you or a caregiver to understand how to use a nebulizer. Talk to your health care provider about how to clean the nebulizer machine, and follow the instructions that come with it.

What should I tell my health care provider before using saline for nebulization?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if saline for nebulization is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider will let you know if you should use saline for nebulization while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider will let you know if you should take saline for nebulization while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Does saline for nebulization interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between saline for nebulization and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect saline for nebulization.

Does saline for nebulization interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

Saline for nebulization may interact with certain medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much saline for nebulization?

If you or someone else has used too much saline for nebulization, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of saline for nebulization?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.