Pooled analysis of two large randomised phase III inhaled mannitol studies in cystic fibrosis

BackgroundTo evaluate safety and efficacy of inhaled mannitol treatment in subgroups of a large global CF population.MethodsData were pooled from two multicentre, double-blind, randomised, controlled, parallel group phase III studies in which 600 patients inhaled either mannitol (400 mg) or control (mannitol 50 mg) twice a day for 26 weeks.ResultsBoth the mean absolute change in FEV1 (mL) and relative change in FEV1 by % predicted from baseline for mannitol (400 mg) versus control were statistically significant (73.42 mL, 3.56%, both p < 0.001). Increases in FEV1 were observed irrespective of rhDNase use. Significant improvements in FEV1 occurred in adults but not children (6-11) or adolescents (aged 12-17). Pulmonary exacerbation incidence was reduced by 29% (p = 0.039) in the mannitol (400 mg) group.ConclusionsSustained six-month improvements in lung function and decreased pulmonary exacerbation incidence indicate that inhaled mannitol is an important additional drug in the treatment of CF.