Scientists have found out what could possibly be the new treatment for cystic fibrosis patients. Read on to know more.
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This mucus is believed to be one of the major reasons that causes mortality in patients affected by this condition; it tends to cause problems in digestion, and makes the lungs more prone to infections.
“This discovery promises hope to the thousands of families desperate for an effective treatment for CF,” says Ed Owen, chief executive of UK charity Cystic Fibrosis Trust. “Life expectancy has improved in recent years but it’s unacceptable that half of patients still won’t see their 40th birthday.”
Alginate is already in use in several OTC medications for heartburn, and also sometimes as a food thickener. For all those worrying about the possible health risks associated with its use, here’s a fact- a recent trial has confirmed alginate to be safe for use, and apparently has no side effects whatsoever. However, further study is still needed to confirm its use as a drug.
It is speculated that the new drug that will incorporate alginate extracts will be administered in a way similar to asthma drugs- by inhaling. It could also possibly reduce the dependency on antibiotic medications to deal with lung infections, which are common among cystic fibrosis patients.
This new drug seems to be extremely promising considering the fact that antibiotic resistance is a major concern today.