Recurrent chest infections in people with cystic fibrosis causes inflammation and damage to the lungs which, in the long term, is the most common reason for death in cystic fibrosis. Inhaled corticosteroids are often used to treat inflammation but may cause adverse effects. Some adverse effects are less serious, for example oral thrush, but others such as reduced childhood growth are more serious. In this updated review 13 trials reported the use of inhaled corticosteroids in 506 people with cystic fibrosis aged between 6 and 55 years. The clinical trials have failed to prove that inhaled corticosteroids reduce inflammation and one trial has shown that they can slow down children's growth when used in high doses. Furthermore it has been shown that under close supervision of the cystic fibrosis team, it may be safe for people who have been taking inhaled corticosteroids for a while to stop doing so.
Inhaled corticosteroids for cystic fibrosis
Published Online:
November 10, 2010
More like this
- Inhaled drugs to open up the airways of people with cystic fibrosis
- The timing of inhalation of dornase alfa in people with cystic fibrosis
- Use of oral steroids for cystic fibrosis
- The use of oral drug therapy with agents other than steroids to reduce lung inflammation and deterioration in lung function in people with cystic fibrosis
- Inhaling antibiotics to treat lung infection in people with cystic fibrosis