Effects of inhaled salmeterol-fluticasone propionate on lung and epithelial cell functions in cystic fibrosis children: a double blind crossover study

Inhaled corticosteroids for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

The reduction of lung inflammation is one of the goals of cystic fibrosis therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids are often used in this respect to treat children and adults with cystic fibrosis. The rationale for this is their potential to reduce lung damage arising from inflammation, as well as their effect on symptomatic wheezing. It is important to establish the current level of evidence for the risks and benefits of inhaled corticosteroids, especially in the light of their known adverse effects on growth. This is an update of a previously published review; however, due to the lack of research in this area, we do not envisage undertaking any further updates.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of taking regular inhaled corticosteroids compared to not taking them in children and adults with cystic fibrosis.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We requested information from pharmaceutical companies manufacturing inhaled corticosteroids and authors of identified trials.Date of most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 19 November 2018.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials, published and unpublished, comparing inhaled corticosteroids to placebo or standard treatment in individuals with cystic fibrosis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent authors assessed methodological quality and risk of bias in trials using established criteria and extracted data using standard pro formas. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE criteria.

MAIN RESULTS

The searches identified 35 citations, of which 27 (representing 13 trials) were eligible for inclusion. These 13 trials reported the use of inhaled corticosteroids in 525 people with cystic fibrosis aged between 6 and 55 years. One was a withdrawal trial in 171 individuals who were already taking inhaled corticosteroids. Methodological quality and risk of bias were difficult to assess from published information.Objective measures of airway function were reported in most trials but were often incomplete and reported at different time points. We found no difference in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) or forced vital capacity (FVC) % predicted in any of the trials, although the quality of the evidence was low due to risks of bias within the included trials and low participant numbers. We are uncertain whether inhaled corticosteroids result in an improvement in exercise tolerance, bronchial hyperreactivity or exacerbations as the quality of the evidence was very low. Data from one trial suggested that inhaled corticosteroids may make little or no difference to quality of life (low-quality evidence).Three trials reported adverse effects, but the quality of the evidence is low and so we are uncertain whether inhaled corticosteroids increase the risk of adverse effects. However, one study did show that growth was adversely affected by high doses of inhaled corticosteroids.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from these trials is of low to very low quality and insufficient to establish whether inhaled corticosteroids are beneficial in cystic fibrosis, but withdrawal in those already taking them has been shown to be safe. There is some evidence they may cause harm in terms of growth. It has not been established whether long-term use is beneficial in reducing lung inflammation, which should improve survival, but it is unlikely this will be proven conclusively in a randomised controlled trial.

Inhaled corticosteroids for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Reduction of lung inflammation is one of the goals of cystic fibrosis therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids are often used to treat children and adults with cystic fibrosis. The rationale for this is their potential to reduce lung damage arising from inflammation, as well as their effect on symptomatic wheezing. It is important to establish the current level of evidence for the risks and benefits of inhaled corticosteroids, especially in the light of their known adverse effects on growth. This is an update of a previously published review.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of taking regular inhaled corticosteroids, compared to not taking them, in children and adults with cystic fibrosis.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We requested information from pharmaceutical companies manufacturing inhaled corticosteroids and authors of identified trials.Date of most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 15 August 2016.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials, published and unpublished, comparing inhaled corticosteroids to placebo or standard treatment in individuals with cystic fibrosis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent authors assessed methodological quality and risk of bias in trials using established criteria and extracted data using standard pro formas.

MAIN RESULTS

The searches identified 34 citations, of which 26 (representing 13 trials) were eligible for inclusion. These 13 trials reported the use of inhaled corticosteroids in 506 people with cystic fibrosis aged between six and 55 years. One was a withdrawal trial in individuals who were already taking inhaled corticosteroids. Methodological quality and risk of bias were difficult to assess from published information. Many of the risk of bias judgements were unclear due to a lack of available information. Only two trials specified how participants were randomised and less than half of the included trials gave details on how allocation was concealed. Trials were generally judged to have a low risk of bias from blinding, except for two which were open label or did not use a placebo. There were some concerns that a number of trials had not been published in peer-reviewed journals, but the risk of bias from this was unclear. Inclusion criteria varied between trials, as did type and duration of treatment and timing of outcome assessments. Objective measures of airway function were reported in most trials but were often incomplete. Significant benefit has not been conclusively demonstrated. Four trials systematically documented adverse effects and growth was significantly affected in one study using high doses.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from these trials is insufficient to establish whether inhaled corticosteroids are beneficial in cystic fibrosis, but withdrawal in those already taking them has been shown to be safe. There is some evidence they may cause harm in terms of growth. It has not been established whether long-term use is beneficial in reducing lung inflammation, which should improve survival, but it is unlikely this will be proven conclusively in a randomised controlled trial.

WITHDRAWN: Inhaled bronchodilators for cystic fibrosis

This review has been withdrawn because it has been split into the following reviews: 'Long‐acting inhaled bronchodilators for cystic fibrosis' and 'Short‐acting inhaled bronchodilators for cystic fibrosis'.

The editorial group responsible for this previously published document have withdrawn it from publication.

Inhaled corticosteroids for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Reduction of lung inflammation is one of the goals of cystic fibrosis therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids are often used to treat children and adults with cystic fibrosis. The rationale for this is their potential to reduce lung damage arising from inflammation, as well as their effect on symptomatic wheezing. It is important to establish the current level of evidence for the risks and benefits of inhaled corticosteroids, especially in the light of their known adverse effects on growth.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of taking regular inhaled corticosteroids, compared to not taking them, in children and adults with cystic fibrosis.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We requested information from pharmaceutical companies manufacturing inhaled corticosteroids and authors of identified trials.Date of most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 17 July 2014.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials, published and unpublished, comparing inhaled corticosteroids to placebo or standard treatment in individuals with cystic fibrosis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent authors assessed methodological quality and risk of bias in trials using established criteria and extracted data using standard pro formas.

MAIN RESULTS

The searches identified 34 citations, of which 26 (representing 13 trials) were eligible for inclusion. These 13 trials reported the use of inhaled corticosteroids in 506 people with cystic fibrosis aged between six and 55 years. One was a withdrawal trial in individuals who were already taking inhaled corticosteroids. Methodological quality and risk of bias were difficult to assess from published information. Many of the risk of bias judgements were unclear due to a lack of available information. Only two trials specified how participants were randomised and less than half of the included trials gave details on how allocation was concealed. Trials were generally judged to have a low risk of bias from blinding, except for two which were open label or did not use a placebo. There were some concerns that a number of trials had not been published in peer-reviewed journals, but the risk of bias from this was unclear. Inclusion criteria varied between trials, as did type and duration of treatment and timing of outcome assessments. Objective measures of airway function were reported in most trials but were often incomplete. Significant benefit has not been conclusively demonstrated. Four trials systematically documented adverse effects and growth was significantly affected in one study using high doses.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from these trials is insufficient to establish whether inhaled corticosteroids are beneficial in cystic fibrosis, but withdrawal in those already taking them has been shown to be safe. There is some evidence they may cause harm in terms of growth. It has not been established whether long-term use is beneficial in reducing lung inflammation, which should improve survival, but it is unlikely this will be proven conclusively in a randomised controlled trial.

Inhaled corticosteroids for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Reduction of lung inflammation is one of the goals of cystic fibrosis (CF) therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are often used to treat children and adults with CF. The rationale for this is their potential to reduce lung damage arising from inflammation, as well as their effect on symptomatic wheezing. It is important to establish the current level of evidence for the risks and benefits of ICS, especially in the light of their known adverse effects on growth.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of taking regular ICS, compared to not taking them, in children and adults with CF.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We requested information from pharmaceutical companies manufacturing inhaled corticosteroids and authors of identified trials.Date of most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: 03 September 2012.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials, published and unpublished, comparing ICS to placebo or standard treatment in individuals with CF.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent authors assessed methodological quality of trials using established criteria and extracted data using standard pro formas.

MAIN RESULTS

The searches identified 34 citations, of which 26 (representing 13 trials) were eligible for inclusion. These 13 trials reported the use of ICS in 506 people with CF aged between 6 and 55 years. One trial was a withdrawal study in individuals who were already taking ICS. Methodological quality was difficult to assess from published information. Inclusion criteria varied between trials, as did type and duration of treatment and timing of outcome assessments. Objective measures of airway function were reported in most trials but were often incomplete. Significant benefit has not been conclusively demonstrated. Four trials systematically documented adverse effects and growth was significantly affected in one study using high doses.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from these trials is insufficient to establish whether ICS are beneficial in CF, but withdrawal in those already taking them has been shown to be safe. There is some evidence they may cause harm in terms of growth. It has not been established whether long-term use is beneficial in reducing lung inflammation, which should improve survival, but it is unlikely this will be proven conclusively in a randomised controlled trial.

Inhaled corticosteroids for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Reduction of lung inflammation is one of the goals of cystic fibrosis (CF) therapy. Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are often used to treat children and adults with CF. The rationale for this is their potential to reduce lung damage arising from inflammation, as well as their effect on symptomatic wheezing. It is important to establish the current level of evidence for the risks and benefits of ICS, especially in the light of their known adverse effects on growth.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of taking regular ICS, compared to not taking them, in children and adults with CF.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register, comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We requested information from pharmaceutical companies manufacturing inhaled corticosteroids and authors of identified trials.Date of most recent search of the Group's Trials Register: June 2008.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials, published and unpublished, comparing ICS to placebo or standard treatment in individuals with CF.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two independent authors assessed methodological quality of trials using established criteria and extracted data using standard pro formas.

MAIN RESULTS

Thirty citations were identified by the searches, of which 25, representing 13 trials were eligible for inclusion. These 13 trials reported the use of ICS in 506 people with CF aged between 6 and 55 years. One trial was a withdrawal study in individuals who were already taking ICS. Methodological quality was difficult to assess from published information. Inclusion criteria varied between trials, as did type and duration of treatment and timing of outcome assessments. Objective measures of airway function were reported in most trials but were often incomplete. Significant benefit has not been conclusively demonstrated. Four trials systematically documented adverse effects and growth was significantly affected in one study using high doses.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence from these trials is insufficient to establish whether ICS are beneficial in CF, but withdrawal in those already taking them has been shown to be safe. There is some evidence they may cause harm in terms of growth. It has not been established whether long-term use is beneficial in reducing lung inflammation, which should improve survival, but it is unlikely this will be proven conclusively in a randomised controlled trial.

Inhaled bronchodilators for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Recurrent wheeze and breathlessness are common in people with cystic fibrosis, and bronchodilators are commonly prescribed. Despite their wide-scale and often long-term use, there is limited objective evidence about their efficacy in cystic fibrosis.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of inhaled bronchodilators in children and adults with cystic fibrosis.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic databases searches, and handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. Latest search of the Group's Trials Register: August 2005

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised trials comparing inhaled bronchodilators to placebo or another inhaled bronchodilator in people with CF, diagnosed clinically and by sweat or genetic testing and at all stages and severity of lung disease.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The authors independently extracted data and assessed trial quality. If data were missing, the primary author was contacted where possible. The data were subgrouped into classes of bronchodilator and for each class into short-term effects (less than one week) and long-term effects (greater or equal to one week).

MAIN RESULTS

The search identified 43 references. Fourteen trials, with a total of 257 participants, were suitable for inclusion. The trials were all cross-over in design; in this case a meta-analysis was not possible. There were varied conclusions from the different trials, reflecting their heterogeneity. Compared to placebo, short-acting beta-2 agonists increased forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV(1)) in the short term in three out of five trials, and in the long-term increased peak expiratory flow rate in individuals who had been shown to have bronchial hyperreactivity or bronchodilator responsiveness or both. Compared to placebo, long-acting beta-2 agonists increased FEV(1) and forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of expiratory flow (FEF 25-75%) in the short term in participants known to have bronchodilator responsiveness, but produced inconsistent results in long-term trials. Short acting-anticholinergics had no consistent effect on lung function tests in either the short or the long term. We found no published trials of fenoterol, formoterol or tiotropium and the use of these agents in cystic fibrosis cannot be supported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

It was not possible to determine fully the effectiveness of inhaled bronchodilators in cystic fibrosis as a meta-analysis was not possible. However, both short and long-acting beta-2 agonists can be beneficial both in the short and long term in individuals with demonstrable bronchodilator responsiveness or bronchial hyperrresponsiveness.