We have presented the results of some of our reviews as podcasts which are available to listen to. Each one offers a short summary of the Cochrane review from the authors themselves. They are accessible and brief, allowing everyone from healthcare professionals to patients and families to hear the latest Cochrane evidence in under five minutes.
Latest podcasts 2024
Macrolide antibiotics (including azithromycin) for cystic fibrosis - this 2024 update included 14 studies, all of which assessed oral azithromycin; 11 studies compared the drug to placebo, while single studies compared high and low dosing, weekly versus daily dosing and oral versus inhaled administration. Evidence showed that oral azithromycin can improve lung function at six months compared to a placebo and may reduce the risk of an exacerbation. There is no clear evidence as to whether high dosing is better than low dosing or whether inhaled azithromycin is better than oral for any of the review's outcomes. While weekly dosing probably leads to less of an improvement in lung function than daily dosing, there is probably a longer time to an exacerbation in the weekly group. Current evidence does not support longer‐term use of azithromycin for all people with CF. Read further details here and listen to the podcast here.*
Nebuliser systems for drug delivery in cystic fibrosis - the 2023 updated review included 13 new studies, but despite this, the reviews's main conclusions have not changed. Authors found insufficient data to establish whether one nebuliser system is better than another overall. There is not evidence for all systems and all types of medication used in CF care, some studies did show that the newer technologies e.g. AAD and VMT have some advantages over conventional systems. The variability in the performance of different nebuliser systems and their compatibility with specific nebulised medication must be considered when choosing the best nebuliser system for each case. Read more details here and listen to the podcast here*.
Antibiotic strategies for eradicating Pseudomonas aeruginosa in people with cystic fibrosis - at the 2023 update four newly included studies the review's conclusions. Evidence shows that nebulised antibiotics, alone or in combination with oral antibiotics, were better than no treatment for early infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa and eradication may be sustained for up to two years. However, there is still insufficient evidence as to whether any antibiotic strategies decrease mortality or morbidity, improve quality of life, or are linked to adverse effects compared to placebo or standard treatment. The review found no differences in rates of eradication of P aeruginosa between active treatments, but did find evidence that intravenous antibiotic treatment is not superior to oral antibiotics. Read more details here and listen to the podcast here*.
*Podcasts are available directly from Cochrane as well as other platforms such as Apple and Spotify.
Older podcasts
Oscillating devices for airway clearance in people with cystic fibrosis - July 2017
Antibiotic strategies for eradicating Pseudomonas aeruginosa in people with cystic fibrosis - October 2017
Autogenic drainage for airway clearance in people with cystic fibrosis - May 2018
Pine bark (Pinus spp.) extract for treating chronic disorders - January 2021