Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

AirPhysio Average Lung Device For Children - Mucus Clearance & Lung Expansion

AirPhysio Average Lung Device For Children - Mucus Clearance & Lung Expansion

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Clears mucus from children's airways using drug-free OPEP technology
  • ✔️ Supports lung expansion in children with asthma or cystic fibrosis
  • ✔️ Calibrated for children's smaller airways and lower lung capacity
  • ✔️ Reusable, washable device — no ongoing prescription costs
  • ✔️ Helps reduce chest infection frequency with daily airway clearance

Price Checker

Regular price £47.99
Sale price £47.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription

Purchase Options

View full details

 

What Is a Mucus Clearance Device for Children?

 

If your child struggles with a persistent chesty cough, recurrent chest infections, or a condition that causes mucus to build up in the lungs, you'll know how distressing it can be — for them and for you. The mucus clearance device for children from AirPhysio is a drug-free, handheld tool designed to help loosen and shift that stubborn mucus naturally, without medication. It works by harnessing a well-established physiotherapy technique called oscillating positive expiratory pressure, or OPEP. At £47.99, it offers a reusable, clinician-aligned approach to airway clearance that can be used at home. For children managing respiratory conditions, having a reliable tool like this can make a real difference to daily comfort and breathing ease. You can also explore our Ear, Nose & Throat range for further respiratory support products.

Mucus build-up in the airways is a common feature of conditions such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, and chronic obstructive airway disease. The NHS recognises airway clearance techniques as an important part of managing these conditions, particularly in children who may not yet be able to perform active cycle of breathing techniques independently.

 

How Does the AirPhysio Children's Device Work?

 

The science behind AirPhysio is straightforward. When your child exhales through the device, a small steel ball inside creates resistance and oscillation simultaneously. This does two things at once:

  • It generates positive expiratory pressure (PEP), which helps keep the small airways open during exhalation, preventing them from collapsing before mucus can be moved.
  • It produces rapid oscillations — tiny vibrations — that travel back through the airways, physically loosening mucus from the airway walls.
  • The loosened mucus migrates upward toward the larger airways, where it can be cleared with a controlled cough or huff.
  • Over repeated sessions, this process helps expand areas of the lung that may have been partially blocked by mucus plugs.

No batteries, no medication, no complicated setup. The device is entirely mechanical, which means it can be used consistently without any ongoing prescription costs or concerns about drug interactions.

 

Who Should Use the AirPhysio Children's Device?

 

This device is specifically calibrated for children with average lung capacity — meaning it requires less expiratory force than the adult version to activate the OPEP mechanism. It is not a toy, and it is not suitable for all children without clinical guidance. That said, it is well-suited to a range of paediatric respiratory situations.

  • Children with asthma who experience frequent mucus-related symptoms or chest tightness
  • Children diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as part of a daily airway clearance routine
  • Children with bronchiectasis or recurrent lower respiratory tract infections
  • Children recovering from pneumonia or a significant chest infection where mucus clearance is slow

Always speak to your child's GP, paediatrician, or respiratory physiotherapist before introducing any new airway clearance device. They can confirm whether OPEP therapy is appropriate and advise on technique.

 

How Does AirPhysio Compare to Other Airway Clearance Options?

 

Feature AirPhysio Children's Device Flutter VRP1 (Alternative OPEP)
Drug-free Yes Yes
Designed for children Yes — calibrated for lower lung capacity Available in adult sizing primarily
Reusable Yes — fully washable Yes
Prescription required No — available OTC Sometimes prescribed via NHS

 

Is the AirPhysio Device Clinically Suitable and How Should It Be Stored?

 

The mucus clearance device for children should be stored in a clean, dry location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. After each use, disassemble the device and rinse all components in warm water. Allow to air dry completely before reassembling. Do not use dishwashers or boiling water, as this may damage the internal mechanism. If your child uses the device as part of a daily physiotherapy routine, keeping it in a dedicated, labelled container helps maintain hygiene and ensures it is always ready to use. For families managing multiple health needs, our Vitamins and Supplements range may also support your child's overall respiratory and immune health.

This product is a medical device. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if your child has an underlying medical condition or is taking other medicines.

AirPhysio Average Lung Device For Children specifications
Treatment category Airway clearance / respiratory physiotherapy
Mechanism of action Oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP)
Effective for Mucus clearance and lung expansion in children
Suitable for Children with average lung capacity
Active ingredient None — drug-free mechanical device
UK classification Medical device (CE/UKCA marked)
Preparation Handheld OPEP device
Route of administration Oral — exhale through mouthpiece

Specifications of AirPhysio Average Lung Device For Children

 

What Is the AirPhysio Children's Device and What Is It Used For?

 

The AirPhysio Average Lung Device for Children is a handheld, drug-free oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device. It is used to help children clear excess mucus from the airways and to support lung expansion. It is not a medicine — it is a reusable medical device that works through controlled breathing mechanics. The NHS describes airway clearance techniques as a key component of managing conditions such as cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis, and OPEP devices are one of the recognised methods used in paediatric respiratory physiotherapy.

It is intended for children who experience mucus build-up due to conditions including asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, chronic bronchitis, or recurrent chest infections. It may also be used during recovery from acute respiratory illness where mucus clearance is impaired. It is not a replacement for prescribed medication or professional physiotherapy — it is a supportive tool to be used alongside clinical care.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the AirPhysio Children's Device?

 

Before your child uses this device, there are some important considerations to be aware of. While it is available without a prescription, it is still a medical device and should be used appropriately.

Do not use this device if your child:

  • Has recently had ear surgery or has an active ear infection
  • Has a known pneumothorax (collapsed lung) or has recently had one
  • Has active haemoptysis (coughing up blood)
  • Has had recent facial, oral, or oesophageal surgery
  • Has a known tracheoesophageal fistula
  • Is too young or developmentally unable to follow breathing instructions correctly

Drug interactions:

  • As a drug-free mechanical device, there are no known pharmacological drug interactions.
  • If your child uses inhaled bronchodilators (such as salbutamol), some physiotherapists recommend using the inhaler before airway clearance to maximise airway opening — always follow your clinician's guidance on sequencing.

 

How Should You Use the AirPhysio Children's Device?

 

Correct technique is essential for the device to work effectively. Rushing or using excessive force will reduce its benefit. Follow these steps carefully, and consider asking a respiratory physiotherapist to demonstrate the technique in person for the first session.

  1. Sit your child upright in a chair with their back straight and feet flat on the floor.
  2. Have them hold the device horizontally — this is important for the steel ball to function correctly.
  3. Ask them to take a slow, deep breath in through their nose (or around the mouthpiece if needed), filling the lungs comfortably but not to maximum capacity.
  4. They should then seal their lips firmly around the mouthpiece.
  5. Ask them to exhale at a steady, moderate pace — not too fast, not too slow. They should feel a slight resistance and vibration.
  6. At the end of exhalation, encourage a controlled cough or "huff" (a short, sharp forced exhalation) to expel loosened mucus.
  7. Rest for a few normal breaths, then repeat the cycle.
User Group Recommended Sessions Per Day Cycles Per Session Notes
Children (average lung capacity) 1–2 10–15 cycles Follow physiotherapist guidance
During acute illness Up to 3 As tolerated Seek clinical advice if symptoms worsen

If your child is also managing allergy or hay fever symptoms that contribute to nasal congestion and post-nasal drip, treating those alongside airway clearance may improve overall respiratory comfort.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the AirPhysio Children's Device?

 

Because this is a drug-free device, it does not carry the systemic side effect profile of inhaled or oral medicines. However, incorrect use or overuse can cause some temporary effects.

Common effects (usually related to technique):

  • Temporary increase in coughing as mucus is mobilised — this is expected and a sign the device is working
  • Mild breathlessness if the child exhales too forcefully
  • Slight dizziness if breathing pattern becomes too rapid — encourage rest between cycles

Less common effects:

  • Lip or mouth discomfort from prolonged mouthpiece use — ensure correct lip seal technique
  • Chest tightness if used during an acute asthma episode — stop use and follow the child's asthma action plan
  • Ear discomfort in children prone to Eustachian tube dysfunction — seek medical advice before continuing

 

How Should You Store the AirPhysio Children's Device?

 

  • Store in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Disassemble and rinse all parts in warm (not boiling) water after each use
  • Allow all components to air dry fully before reassembling
  • Do not use a dishwasher — high temperatures may warp the plastic components
  • Keep out of reach of younger siblings who may use it as a toy
  • Inspect the device regularly for cracks or damage — replace if the integrity is compromised
  • Store in the original case or a clean, sealed container to maintain hygiene between uses

For families managing a child's ongoing health needs, our Baby and Toddler range includes additional products to support children's health and wellbeing at home.

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy the AirPhysio mucus clearance device for children in the UK?

You can buy the AirPhysio Average Lung Device for Children directly from Cured Pharmacy online for £47.99. It is available without a prescription and is dispatched across the UK. No GP referral is needed, though we always recommend discussing airway clearance with your child's doctor before starting.

How does the AirPhysio device work for children?

AirPhysio uses oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) technology. When your child exhales through the device, a small steel ball creates resistance and vibrations that loosen mucus from the airway walls. The loosened mucus then migrates upward and can be cleared with a controlled cough or huff technique.

How do I use the AirPhysio children's device step by step?

Sit your child upright and have them hold the device horizontally. They should inhale slowly, seal their lips around the mouthpiece, then exhale at a steady moderate pace until they feel vibration and resistance. After each cycle, encourage a controlled cough to expel loosened mucus, then rest for a few normal breaths before repeating.

How often should my child use the AirPhysio device each day?

For most children, one to two sessions per day of around 10 to 15 cycles each is a typical starting point. During acute illness, up to three sessions may be appropriate, but always follow the guidance of your child's GP or respiratory physiotherapist. Overuse without clinical guidance is not recommended.

Are there any side effects of using the AirPhysio device in children?

Because it is a drug-free device, systemic side effects are not expected. Some children experience a temporary increase in coughing as mucus is mobilised — this is a normal and expected response. Mild dizziness can occur if the child breathes too rapidly, so encourage rest between cycles and ensure correct technique.

Who is the AirPhysio children's device suitable for?

It is designed for children with conditions that cause mucus build-up in the airways, such as asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, or recurrent chest infections. It is calibrated for children with average lung capacity, meaning it requires less expiratory force than the adult version. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting use.

What is the difference between the AirPhysio children's device and the adult version?

The children's version is specifically calibrated for smaller airways and lower lung capacity, so it activates the OPEP mechanism with less expiratory force. Using the adult version on a child may mean the resistance is too high to generate effective oscillations. Always use the age-appropriate device for best results.

Can the AirPhysio device be used during an asthma attack?

No — do not use the device during an acute asthma attack. If your child is experiencing an asthma flare-up, follow their written asthma action plan and use their reliever inhaler as directed. The AirPhysio device is for routine airway clearance between episodes, not for emergency symptom relief. Seek urgent medical help if symptoms are severe.

How long can a child continue using the AirPhysio device?

The device can be used as part of an ongoing daily airway clearance routine for as long as it is clinically indicated. For children with chronic conditions such as cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis, long-term use is common and well-supported by physiotherapy guidelines. Regular review with a clinician is recommended to assess whether the approach remains appropriate.

What are the alternatives to the AirPhysio device for children?

Alternatives include other OPEP devices such as the Flutter VRP1 or Acapella, as well as manual physiotherapy techniques like the active cycle of breathing technique (ACBT) or postural drainage. Some children may also be prescribed nebulised saline to help thin mucus. Your child's respiratory physiotherapist can advise on the most suitable approach for their specific condition.

Does the AirPhysio device need to be cleaned after every use?

Yes — the device should be disassembled and rinsed in warm water after every use to prevent bacterial build-up. Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembling. Do not use a dishwasher or boiling water, as high temperatures can damage the plastic components and affect the device's function.

Is the AirPhysio device available on the NHS for children?

Some OPEP devices are available on NHS prescription for children with conditions such as cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis, but availability varies by region and clinical need. If your child's condition warrants regular airway clearance, speak to their GP or specialist about whether a device can be prescribed. Alternatively, the AirPhysio device is available to purchase directly from Cured Pharmacy's Electrical Health and Diagnostic range.

What is the latest research on OPEP devices for children?

Research into OPEP therapy for paediatric airway clearance is well-established, particularly in cystic fibrosis management. Studies published in respiratory medicine journals support OPEP as an effective, patient-friendly alternative to manual physiotherapy for mucus clearance. NICE guidelines for cystic fibrosis also acknowledge airway clearance techniques as a core component of management.

Can children with hay fever or allergies benefit from the AirPhysio device?

Children whose allergies cause significant lower airway mucus production or post-nasal drip that settles into the chest may find airway clearance techniques helpful as a complementary measure. However, the primary treatment for allergy and hay fever should be appropriate antihistamines or nasal sprays as advised by a pharmacist or GP. The AirPhysio device is not a treatment for allergy itself.

What should I do if my child finds the AirPhysio device difficult to use?

If your child struggles with the technique, the most helpful step is to request a demonstration from a respiratory physiotherapist who can tailor the approach to your child's age and ability. Some children need a few sessions to build confidence with the breathing pattern. Ensure the device is held horizontally and that the child is not exhaling too forcefully, as this reduces the effectiveness of the oscillation.

How Should You Use the AirPhysio Children's Device?

Using the AirPhysio Average Lung Device for Children correctly is essential to get the most benefit from each session. Before your child uses it for the first time, read through these steps carefully. If possible, ask a respiratory physiotherapist to observe the first session and correct any technique issues early on.

What Is the Correct Dose and Session Frequency for the AirPhysio Children's Device?

There is no single universal dosing schedule — the right frequency depends on your child's condition, symptom severity, and clinical guidance. The table below provides a general reference, but always defer to your child's GP or physiotherapist for personalised advice.

When Is the Best Time to Use the AirPhysio Children's Device?

Morning sessions are often most effective, as mucus tends to accumulate overnight and is easier to clear when the child first wakes. A second session in the early evening can help clear any mucus that has built up during the day. If your child uses an inhaled bronchodilator, some physiotherapists recommend using it 15 to 20 minutes before airway clearance to help open the airways first — always confirm this sequencing with your child's clinician.

How Long Can Your Child Continue Using the AirPhysio Device?

For children with chronic respiratory conditions, the device may be used as part of a long-term daily routine for months or years. There is no fixed maximum duration of use. However, it is important to schedule regular reviews with your child's GP or respiratory team to assess whether the device is still the most appropriate airway clearance method as your child grows and their lung capacity changes. If your child's symptoms worsen or they develop new respiratory symptoms, seek medical advice promptly rather than increasing device use independently.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Effects of Using the AirPhysio Children's Device?

Because the AirPhysio device is entirely drug-free, it does not carry the systemic side effect profile associated with inhaled or oral medicines. Most effects that do occur are related to the physical act of breathing through the device rather than any chemical action. They are generally mild and resolve quickly with correct technique.

  • Temporary increase in coughing — this is expected and indicates the device is loosening mucus effectively
  • Mild breathlessness if the child exhales too forcefully or too quickly
  • Slight dizziness or light-headedness if breathing becomes too rapid between cycles
  • Increased mucus production in the short term as the airways are stimulated

What Are the Less Common Effects of the AirPhysio Children's Device?

Less common effects are usually linked to incorrect technique, overuse, or use in children for whom the device is not clinically appropriate. If any of the following occur, stop use and seek advice from your child's GP or physiotherapist.

  • Lip or mouth soreness from prolonged or incorrect mouthpiece seal
  • Ear discomfort or pressure, particularly in children prone to Eustachian tube dysfunction or middle ear problems
  • Chest tightness or worsening wheeze, particularly in children with poorly controlled asthma
  • Fatigue after sessions if the child is very young or has limited respiratory reserve

What Are the Serious Concerns With the AirPhysio Children's Device?

Serious adverse events from OPEP device use are rare but not impossible. The following situations require immediate cessation of use and prompt medical attention.

  • Coughing up blood (haemoptysis) — stop use immediately and seek urgent medical advice
  • Sudden worsening of breathing difficulty or severe wheeze — follow the child's asthma action plan and call 999 if necessary
  • Signs of a pneumothorax (sudden sharp chest pain, rapid breathing, bluish lips) — this is a medical emergency; call 999
  • Significant increase in chest pain during or after use

What Should You Do If Your Child Experiences Side Effects?

For mild effects such as increased coughing or brief dizziness, simply pause the session, allow your child to rest, and review their technique. Ensure they are not exhaling too forcefully and that the device is held horizontally. For any effect that persists, worsens, or concerns you, contact your child's GP or pharmacist before continuing use. Do not attempt to manage serious respiratory symptoms at home without professional guidance.

Can the AirPhysio Device Interact With Other Treatments?

As a mechanical device with no active pharmaceutical ingredient, there are no known pharmacological drug interactions. However, the timing of device use relative to inhaled medicines does matter clinically. If your child uses a bronchodilator inhaler (such as salbutamol), using it before airway clearance may help open the airways and improve the effectiveness of the session. If they use inhaled corticosteroids or mucolytics, your child's physiotherapist can advise on the optimal sequence. Always inform your child's healthcare team about all treatments being used alongside the device.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery