Inhaled medication and inhalation devices for lung disease in patients with cystic fibrosis: A European consensus.
In cystic fibrosis inhalation of drugs for the treatment of CF related lung disease has been proven to be highly effective. Consequently, an increasing number of drugs and devices have been developed for CF lung disease or are currently under development. In this European consensus document we review the current status of inhaled medication in CF, including the mechanisms of action of the various drugs, their modes of administration and indications, their effects on lung function, exacerbation rates, survival and quality of life, as well as side effects. Specifically we address antibiotics, mucolytics/mucous mobilizers, anti-inflammatory drugs, bronchodilators and combinations of solutions. Additionally, we review the current knowledge on devices for inhalation therapy with regard to optimal particle sizes and characteristics of wet nebulisers, dry powder and metered dose inhalers. Finally, we address the subject of testing new devices before market introduction.
Heijerman
Harry
H
Haga Teaching Hospital, Department of Pulmonology, The Hague, The Netherlands. h.heijerman@hagaziekenhuis.nl
Westerman
Elsbeth
E
Conway
Steven
S
Touw
Daan
D
Döring
Gerd
G
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004338:Drug Combinations; D005100:Expectorants / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D019141:Respiratory System Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D001993:Bronchodilator Agents; D004338:Drug Combinations; D005100:Expectorants; D019141:Respiratory System Agents