Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Inhaled medications are the mainstay of treatment for maintenance of lung health in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Compressor/nebulizer units are used an average of 100–120 min/d by patients with CF. Each compressor/nebulizer has unique flow/pressure characteristics that affect particle size distribution and drug output rate. Few data are available regarding longitudinal performance of compressor/nebulizers. We hypothesized that their use over a 24-wk period under conditions similar to those of patients with CF would affect their performance.
METHODS:
Four new units of compressor/reusable nebulizers from 3 brands (Pari Vios/Pari LC Plus, Pulmo-Aide 5650D/Viox, and Inspiration Elite/SideStream Plus) commonly used by patients with CF were tested. Compressor/nebulizers were operated for 1 h twice daily 5 d/wk for 24 wk. Compressor flow/pressure characteristics were measured every 6 wk. Maximal flow was recorded without and with the nebulizer (MF and MF/NEB, respectively). Pressure was recorded at zero flow (MP) and at MF/NEB (P/NEB). Particle size distribution, inhaled mass (IM), and IM in respirable range were evaluated at baseline and every 12 wk.
RESULTS:
Vios had statistically significant declines in MP and P/NEB at each measurement compared with baseline (45.8 and 32.6 psi for MP and 16.7 and 14.3 psi for P/NEB at wk 0 and 24, respectively,
CONCLUSIONS:
Long-term use of compressor/nebulizers in a regimen similar to that of patients with CF affected their performance. Pari Vios was the most affected brand, with declines in MP and P/NEB and 2 units that stopped working. Measurement of MF and MF/NEB could help identify compressors that are likely to fail.
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