Evaluating the Feasibility and Reliability of Using Handheld Nebulizers to Conduct Cough Sensitivity Testing With Citric Acid

Objective cough reflex sensitivity testing is typically restricted to specialized research laboratories due to reliance on expensive dosimeter-controlled aerosol delivery systems. This study evaluates the feasibility and reliability of a low-cost alternative method using a handheld nebulizer for citric acid cough challenge testing. Healthy adult participants will complete cough reflex sensitivity testing using both a standard dosimeter-controlled nebulizer system (Cosmed QuarkSpiro) and a handheld nebulizer (DeVilbiss 45). The study will compare cough threshold outcomes between methods to determine whether handheld nebulizer-based testing produces comparable and reproducible measurements.

NCT Number	NCT07531901
Lead Sponsor	University of Montana Collaborators: National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Conditions	Cough Reflex Sensitivity
Enrollment	10 participants
Start Date	2026-07-15
Primary Completion	2027-02-01 (estimated)
Study Completion	2027-02-28 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-07-20