Who is the Aerobika OPEP for?
During worsening of COPD symptoms, use the device 2–3 times daily for 10 minutes as an adjunct to medical treatment. In stable, low-symptom periods, a single 10-minute daily session may help prevent mucus build-up.
In cystic fibrosis, daily airway clearance is essential to manage very thick, viscous mucus. Use of the OPEP device should always be agreed with the treating physician and can be part of the therapeutic protocol.
After the acute phase of pneumonia — including COVID-19-related pneumonia — mucus production and coughing may persist for weeks. During recovery, the Aerobika OPEP can help remove residual secretions. Use only after the acute, febrile phase has ended.
In bronchiectasis, mucus trapped in dilated bronchi can be a source of recurrent bacterial infections. Regular introduction of OPEP therapy can be used as an adjunct method to move airway secretions and help maintain lung hygiene.
Video guide: correct steps for use
The video shows how to hold the device, which breathing technique to use, and how to set the resistance to suit you. Pay particular attention to:
- exhalation should be slower and longer than inhalation
- chest vibration is a sign of effective treatment
- increase resistance gradually — do not start at the highest setting
How to use it correctly?
1
Set the lowest resistance
Always start the resistance control at the lowest setting. Do not begin at the strongest level — too much resistance can increase breathlessness after a few minutes.
2
Sit down and place the mouthpiece in your mouth
Use the device while seated. Breathe in normally and calmly through the funnel — there is no resistance on inhalation.
3
Slow, forced exhalation
Exhale through the funnel more forcefully than you inhale. Exhalation should be slower and longer than inhalation — as when blowing up a balloon.
4
Feel the chest vibration
You may feel vibration in your chest during exhalation — this indicates the treatment is effective. The stronger the vibration feels, the more intense the airway clearance.
5
Repeat for 10 minutes, cough as needed
Continue the breathing cycle for 10 minutes. If needed, use a targeted cough to help remove mobilised secretions.
6
Increase resistance gradually
If you can complete the 10-minute session without increased breathlessness, you may increase the resistance by one step next time. Find the level where you clearly feel vibration but your breathing does not become more difficult.
Frequently asked questions about the Aerobika OPEP
No. The Aerobika OPEP is only an adjunct device to be used alongside medical treatment — medications, inhalers and medical supervision. Do not make independent therapeutic decisions without consulting your treating physician.
Do not use during active, febrile pneumonia, if haemoptysis is present, after an untreated pneumothorax, or in severe heart failure. In case of uncertainty, always consult your treating physician.
Clinical trials showed measurable changes in lung function and symptoms after regular use of Aerobika OPEP (twice daily 10-minute sessions) over 12 weeks. Individual experiences may vary — consistent, regular use is key to effectiveness.
During symptom worsening, 1–2 times daily for 10 minutes each. In stable, symptom-free periods, a single 10-minute daily session may be sufficient. Discuss your individual treatment plan with your treating physician.
The Aerobika OPEP is primarily recommended for adults. In children, use only as part of a physician-prescribed therapeutic protocol and under medical supervision.
What does the Aerobika OPEP do for you?
Mucus becomes coughable
Oscillating vibration loosens thick secretions stuck to the airway walls and moves them into larger bronchi — from where they can be removed with a targeted cough.
Breathlessness may decrease
With regular use, the amount of secretions accumulating in the airways may be reduced, which can favourably affect breathing comfort and ability to perform daily activities.
Treatment can be done at home
No hospital visits required — Aerobika OPEP can be used at home with two 10-minute daily sessions. Adjustable resistance allows gradual, safe acclimatisation.
Clinically studied method
Randomised controlled trials indicate that regular use of Aerobika OPEP can lead to measurable improvements in lung function, exercise capacity and quality of life in patients with COPD.
Package contents
The Aerobika OPEP package contains the following components:
- 1 pc Aerobika OPEP device body (with adjustable resistance control)
- 1 pc mouthpiece (funnel)
- 1 pc user manual
After each use, wash components under warm running water and air-dry. Rinse the valve insert more thoroughly once a week. The device is personal — do not share. Replacement of the mouthpiece and valve insert is recommended approximately every 3 months to maintain hygiene and effectiveness. Spare parts are available at Medimarket.
Technical specifications
| Product name | Aerobika OPEP device |
| SKU | 11050191010 |
| Manufacturer | Trudell Medical International (TMI), Canada |
| Type | Oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) airway-clearance device |
| Mode of application | Oral (via mouthpiece) |
| Resistance control | Manually adjustable (min → max scale) |
| Treatment duration | 10 minutes per session, 1–3 sessions daily |
| Target group | Adults (children only with medical prescription) |
| Certification | CE medical device (MDR compliant) |
| Hygiene | Single-user device; opened items cannot be returned |
When NOT to use the device?
- Active pneumonia in the acute, febrile phase
- Untreated pneumothorax
- Severe heart failure, treated cardiac arrhythmia
- Early postoperative chest rehabilitation phase (without medical clearance)
- Presence of haemoptysis (coughing up blood)
- Severe sinusitis or Eustachian tube involvement (decision by physician)
Not sure? Always consult your treating physician before use!
Important information
The Aerobika OPEP is a CE‑marked medical device that can be used as an adjunct airway-clearance method. The device is not suitable for making diagnoses, treating disease on its own, or replacing medication. In respiratory disease, all treatment decisions — including introducing an OPEP device — must be discussed with the treating physician.
This page is for information only and does not replace medical advice. Consult your treating physician before using the device!
Scientific background
PubMed‑indexed studies supporting the Aerobika OPEP method and its effectiveness:
- Sahardin SN, et al. (2023). Impact of Aerobika oscillating positive expiratory pressure in improving small airway resistance, lung function, symptoms and exercise capacity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Frontiers in Medicine, 10, 1202380. PubMed
- Gupta A, et al. (2022). Therapeutic efficacy of oscillating positive expiratory pressure therapy in stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Lung India, 39(5), 449–454. PubMed
- Coppolo DP, et al. (2021). Non-Pharmaceutical Techniques for Obstructive Airway Clearance Focusing on the Role of Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP): A Narrative Review. Pulmonary Therapy, 8(1), 1–41. PubMed
How OPEP therapy works — article by Dr. Zsolt Zátrok →
Airway clearance devices category →
