Aerobika OPEP Device — Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure Therapy by Trudell Medical

The Science Behind OPEP Therapy

When you exhale through the Aerobika device, an internal mechanism creates intermittent resistance that generates two simultaneous effects. First, positive pressure holds your airways open — this is especially important for people whose smaller airways tend to collapse, trapping mucus behind them. Second, rapid oscillations create vibrations that travel through your airway walls, mechanically shearing mucus from the airway surfaces and thinning it so it moves more freely.

This combination mimics and amplifies the natural action of cilia (the tiny hair-like structures lining your airways that normally sweep mucus upward). In people with COPD, bronchiectasis, or cystic fibrosis, the ciliary clearance system is often overwhelmed by excessive mucus production. The Aerobika device assists that natural process without medication.

What to Expect

Most patients notice improved mucus clearance within the first few sessions. Over 3–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, clinical studies have demonstrated measurable improvements in gas distribution within the lungs, reduced reliance on oral corticosteroids and antibiotics, and meaningful quality-of-life gains as measured by the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) and the COPD Assessment Test (CAT).

How to Use

1. Sit comfortably in an upright position.
2. Set the resistance dial to the level recommended by your healthcare professional (start low if you are new to OPEP therapy).
3. Take a slow, deep breath in through the mouthpiece. The low-resistance valve allows inhalation without removing the device from your mouth.
4. Exhale actively through the device. You will feel pulses of resistance — this is the OPEP mechanism working. Exhale for 3–4 seconds, slightly longer than a normal breath out.
5. Repeat for 10–20 breaths.
6. Remove the device and perform 2–3 "huff coughs" — short, forceful exhalations with an open mouth — to expel loosened mucus.
7. Repeat the cycle 2–3 times per session, or as directed by your respiratory therapist.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The Aerobika device disassembles into four parts for easy cleaning. Wash all parts in warm water with liquid dish soap, soak for 15 minutes, rinse, and air dry thoroughly before reassembling. The device is also dishwasher safe — secure the parts in a basket on the top rack. Clean after every use and replace the device every 6 months, or sooner if any part is damaged or worn.

Product Specifications

• Device type: Oscillating Positive Expiratory Pressure (OPEP)
• Drug-free, no batteries or electricity required
• 5 adjustable resistance settings
• Orientation independent — works in any position
• Standard 22mm fitting accommodates small volume nebulizers
• Dishwasher safe
• Reusable for up to 6 months (single patient use)
• Made in Canada and USA by Trudell Medical International
• Award: Medical Design Excellence Award recipient
• SKU: AEROBIKA

Conditions Treated

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Bronchiectasis
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Asthma with mucus retention
• Post-surgical airway clearance
• Chronic bronchitis

What does the Aerobika OPEP device do?

The Aerobika creates oscillating positive expiratory pressure when you breathe out through it. This combination of positive pressure and vibrations opens collapsed or narrowed airways and loosens trapped mucus so it can be moved to the upper airways and coughed out. It is a drug-free, mechanical approach to airway clearance that can be done at home in about 10 minutes per session.

What conditions is the Aerobika used for?

The Aerobika is prescribed for patients with COPD, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, chronic bronchitis, asthma with mucus retention, and post-surgical respiratory recovery. Any condition involving chronic or excessive mucus production in the airways may benefit from OPEP therapy. Your healthcare professional can determine if it is appropriate for your situation.

Do I need a prescription to buy the Aerobika in Canada?

No prescription is required to purchase the Aerobika OPEP device in Canada. However, it is strongly recommended that you use the device under the guidance of a respiratory therapist, physiotherapist, or physician who can set the appropriate resistance level and monitor your progress.

Is the Aerobika covered by insurance or provincial health plans?

Coverage varies by province and insurance plan. The Aerobika may be covered under some extended health benefits, Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB), or provincial assistive device programs. Always submit your receipt and any prescription directly to your insurance provider, even if the pharmacy initially denies coverage. Contact your plan administrator for specific eligibility.

How often should I use the Aerobika?

The standard recommendation is twice daily — once in the morning and once in the evening — or as directed by your healthcare professional. Each session involves 10–20 breaths through the device followed by huff coughing, repeated 2–3 times. Most sessions take about 10–15 minutes.

How long before I notice results?

Many patients report improved mucus clearance from the first session. Clinical studies have shown measurable reductions in COPD flare-ups within 30 days of consistent use, along with decreased cough frequency, reduced breathlessness, and improved exercise tolerance over 3–4 weeks.

How is the Aerobika different from a flutter valve device?

Traditional flutter valve devices use a steel ball inside a cone that oscillates as you exhale. These devices must be held at a specific angle to work properly. The Aerobika uses a mechanical valve mechanism instead, which means it works in any position or orientation — sitting upright, reclined, or even lying down. This makes it more practical for patients with limited mobility or those who use it during other activities.

Can I use the Aerobika with a nebulizer?

Yes. The Aerobika features a standard 22mm fitting that connects to small volume nebulizers. This allows you to combine nebulized medication delivery with OPEP therapy in a single session, reducing overall treatment time and improving medication deposition in the lungs.

What are the resistance settings for?

The Aerobika has five resistance settings that adjust how much effort is required to exhale through the device. Lower settings require less effort and are appropriate for patients with severely limited lung function. Higher settings provide more resistance and stronger oscillations, which may be more effective for patients with greater expiratory capacity. Your healthcare professional should recommend your starting setting and any adjustments over time.

How do I clean the Aerobika?

Disassemble the device into its four parts after every use. Wash in warm water with liquid dish soap, soak for 15 minutes, rinse with tap water, shake off excess water, and air dry completely before reassembling. The parts are also dishwasher safe on the top rack. Do not use boiling water, bleach, or alcohol-based cleaners.

How long does the Aerobika last?

The Aerobika is a reusable device designed for single-patient use. Trudell Medical recommends replacing it every 6 months under normal use. Replace sooner if any part is cracked, warped, or if the resistance mechanism no longer functions properly.

Do you ship the Aerobika across Canada?

Yes. We ship from Calgary, Alberta to all provinces and territories. Orders over $150 qualify for free shipping. Standard delivery is 2–3 business days. The Aerobika is always in stock.