Inhaleeritav

Inhaleeritav means able to be inhaled; in environmental health and pharmacology, it refers to the portion of airborne material that can be drawn into the respiratory tract during normal breathing. The concept is important for assessing potential health effects and for designing inhalation therapies.

In the context of particle exposure, there are two related concepts: inhalable and respirable fractions. The inhalable fraction includes all particles that enter the nose or mouth and can be deposited anywhere in the respiratory tract, typically up to about 100 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter. The respirable fraction consists of the smaller particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, roughly below 4 to 5 micrometers. The aerodynamic diameter accounts for particle size, shape, and density, and helps predict deposition in the airways.

In pharmacology, inhalable drugs are administered via inhalers or nebulizers to target the lungs or systemic absorption through the alveolar surface. Common devices include metered-dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, and soft mist inhalers. Effective delivery depends on achieving a suitable particle size distribution, often in the range of 1 to 5 micrometers for deep lung deposition.

Health and safety: In occupational settings, inhalable dust and aerosols pose risks of irritation, allergy, and chronic disease. Exposure is assessed by measuring the inhalable fraction, using personal samplers and monitors. Controls include ventilation, process enclosure, and respiratory protection.

Legal and labeling: In some regulatory and safety documentation, substances may be described as inhalable (inhaleeritav) to indicate suitability for inhalation or exposure risk. The term is used in health risk assessments, product labeling, and pharmaceutical development.