Lifevac has saved 1,922 lives since its release in October 2022. You may be familiar with a viral video that showed how an emergency responder used it to save a young boy’s life.

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The responder applies the device to the boy’s mouth as a relative exclaims, “He has asthma, he has asthma!” Minutes later, the boy is breathing normally and waving his arms around as if nothing has happened.

The boy’s life was saved thanks to the fast-thinking responder and the LifeVac, an anti-choking device.

What is Lifevac?

Lifevac is a one-time-use anti-choking device. It is manufactured by a company of the same name, a Food and Drug Administration-registered establishment.

The device is available in two sizes, one for children, and one for adults. The children’s mask is recommended for children 22 pounds and up. However, it has been known to rescue children under that weight recommendation including infants.

There is no minimum or maximum weight for the adult mask.

How Does LifeVac Work?

LifeVac has a similar design to a small toilet plunger. It features bellows that attach to a face mask, which is placed over the victim’s nose and mouth. The person administering treatment pushes the bellow’s handles down and back up quickly.

Air is forced out of the side of the device creating a vacuum that sucks the object blocking air out of the airway. It replicates a forced cough that pushes the object out of the person’s throat.

LIfeVac recommends using their device only after other methods for clearing the airway have failed. For example, if you have already tried the Heimlich, or back slaps and chest compressions on an infant, and nothing is working, the LifeVac may be administered. It may be used immediately on people with medical conditions that prohibit the Heimlich and other anti-choking measures.

You can use the LifeVac on yourself or someone else who is choking.

How Much Does LifeVac Cost?

Lifevac is not exclusively for emergency responders. Anyone can purchase one on Amazon for $79.99.  Although the device can be reused, it is not recommended for sanitary reasons.  

The mask never expires. However, you should consider replacing the mask every two to three years to ensure its integrity.

Each home kit comes with a patented one-way valve, a pediatric mask, an adult mask, a practice mask, and a set of instructions. No prescription is required.

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Warnings When Using the LifeVac

The FDA has not approved any anti-choking devices. However, it does not require approval for those devices to be used. It is registered as a Class II medical device, exempt from per-market clearance.

The LifeVac has been subject to numerous studies that prove its effectiveness. The American Cross also stated it is still “awaiting further studies and systematic reviews on these devices.”

While most study outcomes were positive, one small study showed that the LifeVac could not remove larger pieces of food. Due to limited studies, consumers should use trusted anti-choking methods before using the LifeVac. You should also use precautions to avoid choking hazards such as keeping unsafe food and items away from children.