Table 1 Main mucolytic agents used in Cystic Fibrosis, with indication of the methods of preparation and storage, devices recommended and indications for use
Type of mucolytic | Indication for age (years) | Formulation, preparation and dosage | Conservation | Inhalation device |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hypertonic saline solution 7% of NaCl + hyaluronic acid | >  6 | Ready-made 5 ml vial 2vv/die | Room temperature | - Jet nebulizer - Mesh nebulizer |
Hypertonic saline solution 7% of NaCl + sodium bicarbonate | >  6 | Ready-made 5 ml vial 2vv/die | Temperature 5 °C - 25 °C | - Jet nebulizer - Mesh nebulizer |
Hypertonic saline solution 7% of NaCl | >  6 | Ready-made 4 ml vial 2vv/die | Temperature 4 °C–25 °C. | - Jet nebulizer - Mesh nebulizer |
Hypertonic saline solution 6% of NaCl | >  6 | Ready-made 4 ml vial 2vv/die | Room temperature | - Jet nebulizer - Mesh nebulizer - Ultrasonic nebulizers |
Hypertonic saline solution 3% of NaCl | Every age | Ready-made 3–5 ml vial | Room temperature | - Jet nebulizer - Mesh nebulizer - Ultrasonic nebulizers |
Mannitol 40 mg | >  18 | 10 capsules to be inhaled with specific device 400 mg × 2 times/die | Temperature < 30 °C In absence of humid environment | Specific inhaler |
Dornase alfa | >  5 | Ready-made 2.5 ml vial 1 time/die >  21 years 2 times/die (for severe patients) | Temperature: 2 °C - 8 °C max 30 °C for 24 h | - Jet nebulizer - Mesh nebulizer - Adaptive aerosol delivery system. No ultrasonic nebulizers |