Pharmacy students from the University of Karachi have introduced what they claim to be the world’s smallest rechargeable nebulizer, aimed at making respiratory treatment more accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly.
Measuring less than an inch in width, this ultra-compact nebulizer is designed for portability, allowing users to manage their respiratory health at home, in the office, or while traveling. The team of final-year students highlighted that the prevalence of respiratory illnesses such as asthma tends to increase in winter due to rising pollution levels. Their innovative device offers a convenient solution, providing up to 35 minutes of usage on a single charge.
Equipped with micro USB and Type-C charging options, the device is also soundproof, ensuring quiet operation in any setting. In contrast to traditional nebulizers, which are often cumbersome, noisy, and reliant on continuous power, this new model is rechargeable, wireless, and user-friendly.
Lead developer Abdul Rehman revealed that, while conventional nebulizers are priced between Rs8,000 and Rs10,000, their model is significantly more affordable, costing under Rs2,000. “Our goal was to create a device that’s not only effective but also within financial reach for families facing high medical expenses,” he explained.
The eco-friendly device is constructed from bio-plastic, minimizing its environmental impact. This innovation underscores its dual benefits as both a health and sustainability solution.
Given the importance of nebulizers for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, Abdul Rehman emphasized that their easy-to-use design makes the device suitable for all age groups and ideal for various locations, including schools, offices, and homes.
The development team of university of Karachi, consisting of Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Taha Ishaque, Syed Waliuddin, Syeda Arshia Maruf, Zohaib Salman, Maheem Zaidi, Parihan Khan, and Tooba Saleem, views their project as proof of Pakistani students’ potential in contributing meaningfully to science and technology. They urged educational institutions and the government to support and invest in such groundbreaking innovations that can enhance healthcare solutions both locally and internationally.
