Cystic Fibrosis Treatment

There is no cure for CF. Treatment is aimed at:

• Improving nutritional status
• Preventing and treating lung infections
• Keeping the airways and lungs as clear as possible

Treatment for CF includes:

• Nutrition
  • High-calorie diet planned by a registered dietician-If your child returns to his normal weight within two years of the diagnosis, this may lead to fewer coughing episodes and better lung function.
  • Nutritional supplements, including fat-soluble vitamins
  • Enzyme tablets with meals to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients
  • Drinking lots of fluids, especially in hot weather or when ill
• Medication and injections
  • Medications to keep the airways clear, including:
    • Theophylline (rarely used today)
    • Bronchodilators
    • Steroid inhalers
    • DNase
    • Acetylcysteine
    • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (uncommonly used)
  • Vaccines
  • Insulin shots if the pancreas stops producing insulin
  • Inhaled and/or systemic antibiotics to treat respiratory infections
• Other Treatments
  • Chest percussion and postural drainage or high-frequency chest wall oscillation may help clear mucus from airways.
  • Oxygen therapy may be required as the disease progresses.
• Surgery
  • Surgery may be required to treat intestinal obstruction.
  • Lung and liver transplants (possible)

Researchers are exploring gene therapy. This may slow the progression of CF or even cure it.

If you or your child is diagnosed with CF, follow your doctor's instructions.