Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is NIOX MINO® and what makes it unique?
A: NIOX MINO is the number one device for measuring exhaled nitric oxide (NO) to aid in asthma management. With NIOX MINO doctors have – for the first time ever – the ability to achieve asthma treatment and management goals in one easy-to-use device.
More than 4 million successful tests have been performed with NIOX MINO to date. The performance is well documented in more than 40 clinical papers in peer-reviewed journals making NIOX MINO a true market leader in monitoring airway inflammation.
Q: How does NIOX MINO work?
A: NIOX MINO works by measuring nitric oxide in human breath. Exhaled nitric oxide is a sensitive marker for airway inflammation, and can help predict the onset of asthma symptoms or loss of asthma control.
Q: How does NIOX MINO measurements compare to other monitoring methods?
A: A NIOX MINO measurement has been shown to be as informative as biopsy, bronchoalveolar lavage techniques and sputum analysis, which are more invasive techniques for measuring airway inflammation. Measurements using NIOX MINO respond faster than spirometry (a test of the breathing capacity of the lungs) to inflammation changes following allergen exposure, making it a more sensitive marker of the disease.
Q: Can NIOX MINO be used by children and adults?
A: Yes. NIOX MINO is suitable for children approximately 4 to 17 years of age, and for adults age 18 years and older.
Q: Is NIOX MINO easy to use?
A: Yes. Using NIOX MINO is simple. The device comes with easy-to-follow on-screen guidance and an optional visual feedback on a PC screen. Take a detailed look at the procedure.
Q: Is there risk of contamination among patients when using NIOX MINO?
A: Aerocrine supplies disposable bacterial and viral filters for NIOX MINO, preventing cross contamination between patients.
Q: Is the NIOX MINO procedure reimbursable?
A: The NIOX MINO procedure is reimbursable in several countries. Read more about reimbursement.
Q: How can I transfer data from NIOX MINO to a PC?
A: NIOX MINO uses cable (USB) or wireless (Bluetooth) connection for easy transfer of patient data and results to a PC using the new NIOX MINO Data Management software (optional item).
Q: Why should I buy a NIOX MINO and what differentiates it from other NO devices?
A: With NIOX MINO you get:
- Clinical and technical support from the company that was founded by the researchers behind exhaled NO and that are fully dedicated to NO measurements.
- The number one instrument for NO measurements with more that 4 million tests performed in clinical practice.
- A calibration and maintenance-free instrument that delivers a Quality Assured NO value time after time.
- NIOX MINO Data Management Program - the latest and most advanced PC software specially developed for NO measurements.
Q: What do Aerocrine mean by...
...The only calibration and maintenance-free NO device?
A: No calibration by the user. No maintenance or service needed. The instrument and exchangeable sensors are verified to be within specification for the full lifetime and will alert the user if outside the set specification. Read more about Specifications.
...All NO values quality assured?
A: NIOX MINO is designed with a series of built-in tests and monitoring controls. The controls are designed to give guidance to the user through the software interface. The built-in controls consist of assistance to the measurement procedure, monitoring of ambient condition parameters and self test of sensor baseline and alert codes for different warnings and failures. Please contact Aerocrine for further information about NIOX MINO quality control procedures.
...Individualized data management for the practice and the patient?
A: Read more on the NIOX MINO Data Management Program page.
Q: What is NIOX MINO Visual Incentive?
A: With cable (USB) or by wireless (Bluetooth) connection to a PC you can follow the NIOX MINO measurement procedure on a PC screen. The software program NIOX MINO Visual Incentive is delivered with your NIOX MINO and is compatible with Windows® 2000, XP, Vista and 7. Read more about the measurement procedure.
Q: What is the NIOX MINO Data Management Program?
A: A new PC software for more efficient management of patient data in the clinic.
Q: What has been improved on the new NIOX MINO compared to previous versions?
A: Several improvements have been made on the new NIOX MINO. The most important ones are:
- Improved connectivity. Cable (USB) or wireless (Bluetooth).
- Extended life time of the instrument
- New PC software programs. NIOX MINO Visual Incentive and NIOX MINO Data Management Program.
Q: Can I do Nasal nitric oxide measurements with NIOX MINO?
A: Yes. NIOX MINO Nasal is a Research application and can be used to determine the concentration of nitric oxide in gas aspirated from one nostril. Contact your local distributor or Aerocrine directly for further information.
A method of nasal exhalations in NIOX MINO using a mask is supported by studies. Please refer to publications [19], [24], [43] and [61] on the reference page.
Q: What do I need to start using NIOX MINO?
A: You need a NIOX MINO and a Test Kit. Please refer to the Ordering page or contact your local distributor or Aerocrine directly for further details
Q: Where can I purchase NIOX MINO and accessories?
A: Contact your local distributor or Aerocrine directly.
Q: How does Aerocrine provide product support?
A: As a valued user of NIOX MINO, Aerocrine will make every effort to support you and answer your questions. If you need help interpreting the exhaled NO results – ask Aerocrine. We are in touch with the world's most eminent clinical experts and always aim to provide you with the latest information regarding the clinical use of inflammation measurement.
Your first hand support is always your local distributor or Aerocrine.