Authors' objectives: To assess the evidence available on the safety, efficacy and other issues related to the coverage polices of the use of eFlow® (vibrating membrane nebulizer) for the treatment of cystic fibrosis patients.

Authors' recommendations: The information included in this report comes from small, low methodological quality studies and most of them do not report relevant clinical results. The only advantage shown in the published studies is shorter nebulization time with eFlow® when compared with conventional devices. However, this does not show relevant clinical benefits beyond its potential better adherence. Also, one study mentions that its performance may decrease after 6 months in use. In addition, there are other nebulizers (e.g., I-neb®) with which it may be compared, since they have potential advantages. So far, based on the evidence found, there is no evidence that shows the clinical benefit of eFlow® over conventional devices beyond nebulization times. More properly designed studies are required to assess if eFlow® would have a relevant benefit in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2012

URL for published report: https://www.iecs.org.ar/home-ets/?cod_publicacion=1291&origen_publicacion=publicaciones

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Argentina

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy

Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA

Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar

Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar

Copyright: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)