Disposable versus reusable jet nebulizers for cystic fibrosis treatment with tobramycin

Background: Jet nebulizers are commonly used to administer aerosolized tobramycin to CF patients. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of disposable jet nebulizers as an alternative to reusable nebulizers such as the Pan LC Plus. Method: From a survey conducted in 49 CF centers in France, 18 disposable jet nebulizer systems were selected. An in vitro study was performed with 20 jet nebulizer/air source combinations (18 disposable and 2 reusable) to determine their performance with tobramycin solution (300 mg/5 mL). A scintigraphic deposition study in baboons was performed to validate the in vitro data. Results: In vitro and in vivo results correlated. There was no overall relationship between the compressed air source and nebulizer performance, but the nebulizer interface was responsible for significantly different results. Conclusions: None of the disposable nebulizers tested in this study can be recommended as an alternative to the Pari LC Plus nebulizer for tobramycin. (C) 2010 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.