Where Can I Buy a Nebulizer? Start Here

If you or a loved one has been prescribed nebulizer treatments, you might be asking:

“Where can I buy a nebulizer?”

The good news is, you have options if you want to walk into a store today or have one shipped to your door. From major retail pharmacies to specialized online stores, buying a nebulizer machine is easier than many people realize.

Better yet, you don’t always need a prescription to buy a nebulizer. Many models can be purchased over the counter. (Need help understanding the rules? Read our full guide on whether you need a prescription for a nebulizer →).

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Where to buy a nebulizer machine
Whether local or online is better for your needs
What to look for when comparing models
And how to save money using insurance, HSA, or FSA funds

Let’s start with the most familiar option: your local pharmacy.

Buying a Nebulizer at Your Local Pharmacy (Over-the-Counter)

If you’re in a hurry or prefer an in-person experience, you can usually buy a portable nebulizer at pharmacies like Walgreens, CVS, or Rite Aid. Prescriptions are not required for a portable handheld device off the shelf. Stock can vary though, so call or check online before making the trip.

Some pharmacies also carry jet nebulizers (the kind with an air compressor), but you’ll typically need a prescription when you go that route.

Pros of buying at your local pharmacy:

Immediate access: Pick it up today and start treatment right away.
Pharmacist support: You can ask about usage, cleaning, or any compatibility questions.
OTC availability: In most cases, you can buy a nebulizer without a prescription, as long as they have stock.

Things to keep in mind:

Limited selection: Drug stores may only carry one or two options to choose from.
Varies between stores: A store close to you may not stock a nebulizer that a store 20 minutes away has.
Prescription still needed for meds: While you can get the machine, you’ll need a prescription for medications like albuterol or budesonide.

Quick Tip: Call your local pharmacy ahead of time to check if they have nebulizers in stock or what requires a prescription.

What about insurance? Some pharmacies may be able to bill your insurance — but that usually requires a prescription and may be processed through a durable medical equipment (DME) provider, not directly at the retail counter.

Medical Supply Stores and DME Providers

If you're wondering where you can buy a nebulizer machine beyond the pharmacy, medical supply stores and DME (Durable Medical Equipment) providers are another smart option. These include local businesses as well as national providers like Apria, Lincare, and others approved by insurance networks.

The medical supply store nebulizer selection is much wider, with options including pediatric models, smaller compressor units, and higher-end options that may not be available at standard retailers.

Why choose a medical supply or DME provider?

Expert support: These shops specialize in respiratory devices and can help you compare models based on your specific condition (like asthma or COPD).
Insurance billing: If you’re planning to get a nebulizer machine with insurance, most DME providers can handle the process for you.
Delivery available: Some providers offer home delivery, which can be helpful for seniors or anyone recovering from illness.
Covered by Medicare or Medicaid: If you have a prescription, Medicare Part B may cover a nebulizer purchased through an approved DME provider. You’ll likely need to meet certain criteria and pay around 20% of the cost as coinsurance, but this can reduce your out-of-pocket burden significantly.

Potential downsides to consider:

Prescription required: These stores often won’t sell you a nebulizer without a prescription, especially if it’s going through insurance.
Slower process: Unlike buying a nebulizer online or at a local pharmacy, DME purchases may take longer because of insurance authorization.
Less price flexibility: Medical supply stores tend to use insurance-based pricing, which can be higher than retail if you're paying out-of-pocket.

Can I use my HSA or FSA to buy a nebulizer?

Yes! Nebulizers are HSA- and FSA-eligible medical devices. If you’ve set aside funds in one of these accounts, you can use them to buy your nebulizer tax-free.

Many medical supply stores and pharmacies accept HSA/FSA cards at checkout.
You can even use your HSA or FSA to cover your copay if buying a nebulizer through your insurance provider.
For online shoppers, keep in mind: not all sellers accept HSA/FSA payments, so double-check before purchasing.

Can I Buy a Nebulizer Online? Absolutely – Here’s How

Yes, you can absolutely buy a nebulizer online! And for many people, it’s the easiest and most convenient option. Whether you're looking for a quiet, portable model or a basic home unit, there are plenty of trustworthy sellers where you can find exactly what you need.

Buying a Nebulizer on Amazon

Let’s start with the obvious: Amazon. You’ll find dozens of nebulizer machines for sale, ranging from basic kits under $30 to premium portable nebulizers priced over $100. You’ll find a wide variety of brands and be able to take advantage of fast Prime shipping.

But a quick word of caution: not all nebulizers sold online meet FDA standards. Some ultra-cheap or unbranded devices may look like a good deal but lack the quality, reliability, or safety you need for a medical device. Always check that the product is FDA-approved and from a reputable seller. Other signs of a reputable medical grade nebulizer are FDA 510(k) clearance and approval from other regulatory bodies like CE, CFDA, JFDA, and ISO.

Other Online Retailers That Sell Nebulizers

In addition to Amazon, other retailers offer nebulizer machines through their websites:

CVS has a couple over-the-counter nebulizers online, but reviews are mixed.
Specialty sites like justnebulizers.com (an online nebulizer store) focus specifically on respiratory products, offering a wide range of accessories and pediatric-friendly models. You’ll need a valid prescription for many of these options.
Some DME suppliers also operate online stores, though you may still need a prescription if using insurance.

Buying Direct (Like TruNeb™)

You can also buy a nebulizer directly from the brand. Sometimes, that’s the best experience!

For example, TruNeb™ (that’s us!) helps people trying to find where to buy a nebulizer online with a simple “add to cart” and checkout process right on our website. We handle everything from fast shipping to customer service and additional accessories. Our premium portable nebulizer is:

FDA-approved
FDA 510(k) cleared
ISO 13485 certified
Qualified for HSA/FSA card purchase
Shipped from Florida within 24 hours

This is ideal if you're looking for a quiet, rechargeable nebulizer that’s great for home or travel.

Pros of Buying a Nebulizer Online

Convenience: No need to leave home. Shop, compare, and order from your phone or computer.
Larger selection: You’ll find more choices than your local store can stock.
Better price comparison: It’s easy to find something for your budget and read real customer feedback.
Direct-to-door delivery: Great if you or your child needs a neb (in a non emergency situation) but don’t want to drive around to find one.

More patients than ever are opting to buy nebulizers online — especially when they need a travel-friendly option or are shopping with an HSA or FSA card.

Things to Watch Out For

Shipping time: Most online orders arrive quickly, but plan ahead if you need it urgently. (TruNeb orders typically ship within 24 hours.)
Returns: Not every device is returnable, and not every retailer makes it easy.
Quality control: Always look for language like “FDA-approved” or “FDA 510 (k) certified” and avoid super low-priced nebs. Your health and safety is worth it!

Prescription Requirements: What You Need (And Don’t Need) to Buy

One of the most common questions we hear is: “Do I need a prescription to buy a nebulizer?”

The short answer? No — not for the machine itself.In the U.S., you can buy a nebulizer without a prescription from many pharmacies, online stores, and manufacturers.

Let’s clear this up:

The FDA does technically classify nebulizers as prescription medical devices.
But in practice, many portable nebulizers are sold over the counter and are exempt.

If you’re buying the device with your own money, there’s usually no prescription required — especially for portable handheld options like the TruNeb™ Portable Nebulizer. It’s FDA-approved and available without going through insurance.

But you WILL need a prescription for the medication

This is where the rules shift.

To use your nebulizer with medications like albuterol, budesonide, or ipratropium, you’ll still need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. The nebulizer is just the delivery tool — and the medication is what requires the doctor’s order.

Some solutions like hypertonic saline for nebulization can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

If You’re Using Insurance, It’s a Different Story

Planning to go through your insurance?

Then yes, you’ll need a prescription to qualify.
Most insurance-linked suppliers (DME providers) won’t even process your order without one.
Your doctor will typically need to submit proof of diagnosis, like asthma or COPD, and complete medical documentation.

That process can take a few days or more, so if you're in a hurry or don’t want to deal with insurance paperwork, it’s often easier to buy a nebulizer machine out of pocket — especially if it's HSA- or FSA-eligible, like TruNeb.

Be aware, even if some sellers accept FSA and HSA cards, a transaction could potentially still get denied if your administrator requires specific documentation or verification.

Where Can You Buy a Nebulizer? Final Advice

Buying a nebulizer can be very straightforward. Whether you're navigating insurance coverage or buying directly online, a little planning can go a long way in finding a nebulizer machine that works best for you.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

Use Insurance or HSA/FSA if You Can

If you have a prescription and your condition qualifies, insurance might cover the cost of a nebulizer (usually a basic jet model). Just keep in mind:

You may still be responsible for copays or coinsurance (often 20% of the cost with Medicare Part B).
Some insurance suppliers only offer limited models, so the process can take time.

In some cases, buying an affordable portable nebulizer out of pocket may cost less than your insurance deductible or co-pay.

If you have an HSA or FSA account, nebulizers are considered eligible medical devices.

Focus On Quality

Compare across reputable sellers: Whether you're buying from a pharmacy, an online store, or directly from the brand or manufacturer, take time to understand the product. Look for FDA approval, consistent performance, and a money-back guarantee within the first month.
Pay attention to build quality: Not all nebulizers are built the same, especially portable ones. Is the mesh nozzle replaceable? What kind of power source does it require? These are all questions to consider.
Look for thoughtful design extras: Some nebulizers include features that make treatment more convenient, like quiet operation and rechargeable bases for nightly charging. Or accessories like a travel bag & replaceable mesh nozzles. These small details might matter to you.

Is a Portable Nebulizer Machine Worth the Upgrade?

You know where to buy a nebulizer, but now you just need to make a decision. Is a portable nebulizer any good? Yes! Even though a smaller handheld nebulizer is potentially more of an investment, the tradeoff for convenience is worth it. A lot of people buy a portable neb as a backup device for easy breathing treatments when they don’t feel like unpacking a compressor and tubing.

The quiet operation, easy cleaning, and better medication delivery make it well worth the cost.

Whether you go through insurance and order a traditional jet nebulizer or you’re convinced a portable nebulizer is the best fit, TruNeb™ is always here to provide the best support and quality products.