Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 24, 2026

Dry Powder and Nebulized Aerosol Inhalation of Pharmaceuticals Delivered to Mice Using a Nose-only Exposure System
Published on: April 6, 2017
The use of nebulized opioids in the management of dyspnea: evidence synthesis
Margaret Joyce1, Maryellen McSweeney, Virginiay L Carrieri-Kohlman
1Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA. joycepe@umdnj.edu
Purpose/Objectives:
To analyze the evidence about the use of nebulized opioids to treat dyspnea using the Priority Symptom Management (PRISM) level-of-evidence framework and to make a practice recommendation.
Data Sources:
Computerized database and manual search for articles and abstracts that included experimental trials, chart reviews, and case studies.
Data Synthesis:
20 articles with evaluable evidence were identified. Analysis was complex because of heterogeneous variables and outcome measures. A major limitation is small sample sizes. The majority of PRISM level I and II studies indicated unfavorable evidence.
Conclusions:
Scientific data supporting the use of nebulized opioids to treat dyspnea in patients with chronic pulmonary disease, including malignancy, are lacking.
Implications For Nursing:
Insufficient data identify a need for further research with random crossover designs involving larger samples that are stratified according to prior opioid use. Consistency of study variables should be emphasized.
Related Concept Videos
Inhaled Medications
COPD: Management Using Bronchodilators and Corticosteroids
Opioid Analgesics: Synthetic and Semisynthetic Opioids
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-V: Management
Smoking Cessation
Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...
Opioid Analgesics: Morphine and Other Natural Cogeners
