The effects of Heliox on the output and particle-size distribution of salbutamol using jet and vibrating mesh nebulizers.

There are theoretical benefits of delivering drug aerosols to patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using Heliox as a carrier gas. The objective of this study was to develop systems to allow bronchodilators nebulized by a breath enhanced jet nebulizer and a vibrating mesh nebulizer to be delivered to patients in Heliox. This was achieved by attaching a reservoir to the nebulizers to ensure inhaled Heliox was not diluted by entrained air.

The effect of helium and oxygen on exercise performance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomized crossover trial.

Rationale: Breathing supplemental oxygen reduces breathlessness during exercise in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Replacing nitrogen with helium reduces expiratory flow resistance and may improve lung emptying. Combining these treatments should be independently effective.