Bronchial constriction after nebulized tobramycin preparations and saline in patients with cystic fibrosis

To assess the airway response to inhaled tobramycin we measured flow volume curves in 12 patients with cystic fibrosis. Immediately and/or 2 min after tobramycin inhalations there was a significant fall in lung function regardless of the concentration used; isotonic saline caused similar obstruction but not a complete cessation of peripheral airflows. The baseline oxygen saturation was significantly correlated with the fall in lung function. Ten minutes after inhalation lung function tests returned to baseline values. Conclusion As salbutamol could significantly reduce airway obstruction tobramycin should always be inhaled in combination with a bronchodilator.