Let's learn about the Mannitol Inhaler for Cystic Fibrosis (Mannitol Dry Powder Inhaler)

If you or someone you know has Cystic Fibrosis (CF), you probably know all too well the challenges of living with it. Especially how difficult it is to breathe due to the thick mucus in your lungs . So, to help you in times like these, one special medicine that doctors recommend is this inhaler called Mannitol. Today, we will talk about this in a simple way that you can understand.

Simply put, what is this Mannitol inhaler?

This is a medicine that you inhale through your mouth. To be precise, it comes in the form of small capsules. But these are not meant to be swallowed, are they? You put these capsules into a special inhaler device, and you inhale the powder that comes out of it.

So what does this medicine do? Imagine that the mucus in your lungs is very thick and sticky. It's like thick honey . That's why it's very difficult to get that mucus out, that is, to get rid of the mucus. What Mannitol does is to thin out that thick mucus. It's like adding a little water to thick honey. When the mucus is thin, you can easily cough it out of your lungs.

There are several benefits to removing mucus this way:

• It will be much easier for you to breathe.
• The risk of infections caused by mucus accumulation in the lungs is reduced.

This medicine may sometimes come under other names. The most common brand name seen in Sri Lanka is `(BRONCHITOL)`.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will ask you a few questions. It is very important that you answer all of them truthfully. Be sure to answer the questions below.

• If you cough up blood: This is very important. If this has ever happened to you, tell us about it.
• If you have any allergies : This means that if you have any allergies, not just to Mannitol, but to any other medicine, food, dyes, or preservatives, please tell us about them.
• If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant: It is essential to talk to your doctor before taking any medication during this time.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: The medication you are taking can pass to your baby through breast milk, so inform your doctor about this as well.

How do you use this inhaler correctly?

It is very important to know how to use this correctly, because only then can you get the most out of the medicine.

1. Use your "quick- relief " inhaler first: Your doctor will usually give you another inhaler to use when you suddenly have trouble breathing. This is called a "quick-relief" or "rescue" inhaler. You should use your "quick-relief" inhaler 5 to 15 minutes before using your Mannitol inhaler. This will help open up your airways and allow the Mannitol medicine to reach your lungs.

2. Do not swallow the capsules: Again, never swallow the capsules that come with this medicine. They are only meant to be used in the inhaler device.

3. Read the instructions carefully: The instructions that come with the medicine (`INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE`) explain step by step how to use it. Read it carefully and understand it. If there is anything you do not understand, never be shy to ask your doctor.

4. Take the right dose, at the right time: Take the right dose, at the right time, as prescribed by your doctor. Even if you feel better, do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to.

What if I miss a dose of medicine?

We sometimes forget to take our medicine, don't we? If that happens, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much medicine, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Otherwise, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Unit (ETU) as soon as possible.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. But not everyone gets them. The important thing is to know what these side effects are and which ones are serious.

How to store medication and manage the inhaler?

• Keep away from children: As with all medicines, keep this one safely out of the reach of children and pets.
• Temperature : Room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius) is best. Avoid extreme heat and refrigeration.
• Keep in the original packaging: Keep the capsules in the original packaging until you are ready to use them.
• Inhaler device: This is very important. You should definitely throw away your inhaler device after 7 days of use and get a new one.

Finally, this medicine is for you only. The doctor has prescribed it for your condition and your body. Therefore, never share it with anyone else.