TOBI Podhaler Drastically Reduces Hospitalization for Cystic Fibrosis
TOBI Podhaler (inhaled tobramycin) is a relatively new medication that has proven effective in treating lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis. In fact, a clinical trial found that only 4.4% of people who used TOBI Podhaler for one full treatment cycle required respiratory-related hospitalization, as opposed to 12.2% of people in the placebo group. That’s a 64% reduction in hospitalizations for people who used TOBI Podhaler. This new form of the medication TOBI has proven to be effective for many sufferers of cystic fibrosis.
The clinical trial also showed a 12.54% improvement in lung function and 15% less need for intravenous antipseudomonal antibiotics in the group that used TOBI Podhaler.
This inhaled antibiotic is intended to treat people 6 years and older with cystic fibrosis, a hereditary condition that causes mucus to become thick and sticky. As mucus builds up, it can block the airways and cause breathing problems. It also becomes a breeding ground for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a type of bacteria that causes lung infections. If left untreated, this bacteria can lead to chronic lung infections characterized by coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.
The tobramycin in TOBI Podhaler combats lung infections by binding to a site on the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria and causing cell death. This reduces a patient’s risk for serious complications from the infection.
TOBI Podhaler is not the only version of inhaled tobramycin, but it is the most effective. Its predecessor, TOBI, requires a special device called a nebulizer, and each dose is administered over the course of about 15 minutes. TOBI is typically taken every 12 hours. TOBI Podhaler comes in a pocket-sized disposable inhaler, is typically taken twice a day, and takes about 2-7 minutes to administer. The lightweight inhaler requires minimal set-up and does not need batteries, electricity, a compressor, or refrigeration.
If you frequently get lung infections due to cystic fibrosis, ask your doctor if TOBI Podhaler could be a good treatment option for you. As with all prescription drugs, TOBI Podhaler may cause certain side effects. Your doctor will need to determine that you do not have any medical conditions that increase your chances for serious side effects and that the benefit of this drug outweighs the risk.
