Investigational inhaled therapies for non-CF bronchiectasis

Abstract

Introduction: Bronchiectasis not related to cystic fibrosis (non-CF bronchiectasis) are associated with a high unmet therapeutic need due to the lack of specifically authorized medications, especially via the inhalation route. In non-CF bronchiectasis chronic infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa is common and favored by the persistent local inflammation and viscid sputum production. Therefore inhaled antibiotics, mucolytics or anti-inflammatory agents could represent appropriate therapeutic interventions in this setting.

Areas covered: This review herein discusses the inhaled therapies currently under investigation for non-CF bronchiectasis and their potential therapeutic positioning in exacerbation versus stable state.

Expert opinion: Inhaled antipseudomonal antibiotics are of promising efficacy, but further efforts should also be made to detect bactericidal approaches against Burkholderia cepacia complex, and to interfere chronic inflammation topically.

Keywords: Antibiotics; Burkholderia cepacian; Pseudomonas aeruginosa; anti-inflammatory; bronchiectasis; cystic fibrosis.