inalatorie

Inalatorie is an Italian term used in pharmacology and medicine to denote therapies, formulations, or devices intended for administration by inhalation. The word derives from inalazione (inhalation) and is used to describe routes of administration that deliver active substances to the respiratory tract.

Inalatorie formulations and devices include nebulized solutions, dry powder inhalations, and metered-dose inhalers, as well as devices such as inhalers and nebulizers. They may contain bronchodilators for relief of airway constriction, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, or combination products used to treat respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD. Examples commonly encountered in clinical practice are inhaled beta-agonists like salbutamol and inhaled corticosteroids.

The main advantages of inhalation-based therapies are a rapid onset of action and a high local concentration in the lungs, coupled with reduced systemic exposure compared to oral administration. This can improve symptom control while minimizing systemic side effects. However, inalatorie therapies require proper technique and device maintenance; effectiveness depends on correct use, inspiratory flow, and adherence. Limitations include variability in drug deposition within the lungs, dependence on user skill, and potential local adverse effects such as throat irritation or oral infections with inhaled corticosteroids.

Terminology varies: in Italian practice, terms such as terapia inalatoria or formulazioni inalatorie are common, while inalatorie may appear as an adjectival or nominal reference to those routes or products. In English-language contexts, the broader phrase inhalation therapy is more frequently used.

See also: inhalation therapy, inhaler, nebulizer, metered-dose inhaler.