The term "inhaled mass" refers to what in aerosol therapy?

The term "inhaled mass" in the context of aerosol therapy specifically refers to the amount of drug that is delivered and successfully inhaled by the patient from the aerosolized formulation. This measure is crucial because it directly correlates to the efficacy of the treatment; a higher inhaled mass means that more of the therapeutic agent is available to act on the target site within the respiratory system.

Inhaled mass is influenced by several factors including the device used for aerosolization, the technique of inhalation by the patient, and the properties of the aerosol particles themselves. While the size of the particles plays a role in how effectively they can be inhaled, it is the quantifiable amount of the drug inhaled that defines inhaled mass. As such, assessing inhaled mass helps healthcare professionals evaluate the effectiveness of therapy and adjust dosages accordingly.

This definition distinguishes inhaled mass from other related concepts, ensuring a focused understanding of how much active medication reaches the lungs during aerosol therapy.