Inhaled saline improves lung function in cystic fibrosis

Short-term studies have suggested that inhaling a hypertonic (7%) saline solution stimulates mucus clearance from the lungs and increases hydration of the airway surface in individuals with cystic fibrosis, an exocrine disorder. Researchers in Australia tested this treatment in a long-term study of 162 individuals over 48 weeks. Some individuals used the 7% saline mist, others a normal saline (0.9%) mist. Those who were treated with the 7% mist had better lung function (as measured by pulmonary function tests) during the treatment than the individuals treated with normal saline. Those using the hypertonic mist also had fewer exacerbations requiring intravenous antibiotic treatment, and missed significantly fewer days of work or school.

The researchers also studied whether pretreatment with amiloride prior to administering the hypertonic mist would be beneficial. They found the amiloride did not enhance the effects of the mist. The research was published in the January 19, 2006, issue of New England Journal of Medicine.