Cystic Fibrosis

Medicines for cystic fibrosis help keep the lungs as healthy as possible, reduce and control Reference mucus Opens New Window in the lungs, and replace digestive Reference enzymes Opens New Window.

Medication choices

Medicines for cystic fibrosis include:

Medicines to treat infections

Reference Antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin and tobramycin)

Medicines to open breathing tubes in the lungs or keep them open

Reference Bronchodilators (such as albuterol or salmeterol)

Reference Anticholinergics (such as Atrovent)

Medicines to control the amount and thickness of mucus

Reference DNase (such as Pulmozyme)

Mucolytics (such as acetylcysteine)

Saltwater solution (hypertonic saline)

Medicines to reduce inflammation

Reference Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (such as ibuprofen)

Membrane stabilizers (such as cromolyn)

Reference Corticosteroids (such as fluticasone or prednisone)

Medicines to replace the effect of digestive enzymes

Reference Enzyme replacement therapy (such as Creon or Pancreaze)

A small number of people with cystic fibrosis have a certain changed (mutated) Reference gene Opens New Window called the G551D mutation. If you have this changed gene, the medicine ivacaftor (Kalydeco) can target the genetic cause of your lung problems and may help improve lung function. Talk to your doctor if you want more information about it.

What to think about

Some medicines work better for some people than for others. A medicine that works well for one person may not work for someone else. It can take time to find the medicines that work best for you or your child.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.