1.
Sodium channel blockers for cystic fibrosis.
Burrows, EF, Southern, KW, Noone, PG
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews. 2014;(4):CD005087
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Abstract
BACKGROUND People with cystic fibrosis (CF) have increased transport of the salt, sodium across their airway lining. Over-absorption of sodium results in the dehydration of the liquid that lines the airway surface and (along with defective chloride secretion) is a primary defect in people with CF. OBJECTIVES To determine whether the topical administration of drugs that block sodium transport improves the respiratory condition of people with CF. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearching relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We contacted principal investigators known to work in the field, previous authors and pharmaceutical companies who manufacture ion transport agents for unpublished or follow-up data.Most recent search of the Group's register: 19 December 2013. SELECTION CRITERIA Published or unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-randomised controlled trials of sodium channel blockers compared to placebo or another sodium channel blocker or the same sodium channel blocker at a different dosing regimen. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently extracted data. Meta-analysis was limited due to differing study designs. MAIN RESULTS Five RCTs, with a total of 226 participants, examining the topical administration of the short-acting sodium channel blocker, amiloride, compared to placebo were identified as eligible for inclusion in the review. In three studies over six months, there was a significant difference found in the difference in relative change in FVC in favour of placebo (weighted mean difference 1.51% (95% confidence interval -2.77 to -0.25), although heterogeneity was evident. A two-week study demonstrated that hypertonic saline with amiloride pre-treatment did not result in a significant improvement in respiratory function or mucus clearance, in contrast to pre-treatment with placebo. There were no significant differences identified in other clinically relevant outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that the topical administration of a short-acting sodium channel blocker improves respiratory condition in people with cystic fibrosis and some limited evidence of deterioration in lung function.
2.
Sodium channel blockers for cystic fibrosis.
Burrows, EF, Southern, KW, Noone, PG
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews. 2012;(3):CD005087
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with cystic fibrosis (CF) have increased transport of the salt, sodium across their airway lining. Over-absorption of sodium results in the dehydration of the liquid that lines the airway surface and is a primary defect in people with CF. OBJECTIVES To determine whether the topical administration of drugs that block sodium transport improves the respiratory condition of people with CF. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis and Genetic Disorders Group Trials Register comprising references identified from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearching relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We contacted principal investigators known to work in the field, previous authors and pharmaceutical companies who manufacture ion transport agents for unpublished or follow-up data.Most recent search of the Group's register: 22nd August 2011. SELECTION CRITERIA Published or unpublished randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-randomised controlled trials of sodium channel blockers compared to placebo or another sodium channel blocker or the same sodium channel blocker at a different dosing regimen. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two authors independently extracted data. Meta-analysis was limited due to differing study designs. MAIN RESULTS Five RCTs, with a total of 226 participants, examining the topical administration of the short-acting sodium channel blocker, amiloride, compared to placebo were identified as eligible for inclusion in the review. In three studies over six months, there was a significant difference found in the difference in relative change in FVC in favour of placebo (weighted mean difference 1.51% (95% confidence interval -2.77 to -0.25), although heterogeneity was evident. A two-week study demonstrated that hypertonic saline with amiloride pre-treatment did not result in a significant improvement in respiratory function or mucus clearance, in contrast to pre-treatment with placebo. There were no significant differences identified in other clinically relevant outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence that the topical administration of a short-acting sodium channel blocker improves respiratory condition in people with cystic fibrosis and some limited evidence of deterioration in lung function.
3.
Role of cold receptors and menthol in thirst, the drive to breathe and arousal.
Eccles, R
Appetite. 2000;(1):29-35
Abstract
Menthol is widely used in candy, chewing gum, toothpastes, cigarettes and common cold medications. Menthol has been shown to stimulate cold receptors in the mouth and nose. The present paper puts forward the hypothesis that menthol, by its effects on oral and nasal cold receptors, may influence thirst, the drive to breathe, and arousal. The satisfying effects of menthol on thirst and breathing, together with an effect on arousal, may explain the popularity of menthol and account for the very large amount of menthol-containing products that are consumed each day.