Prophylactic antibiotics for cystic fibrosis.

Cystic fibrosis blocks the airways with mucus and causes frequent respiratory infections. This leads to inflammation and lung disease, which frequently causes death from breathing failure. People with cystic fibrosis are sometimes given antibiotics regularly, in an attempt to prevent infections. However, antibiotics also have adverse effects, and longterm use might lead to the development of infections that can no longer be cleared by antibiotics. The review found some evidence from trials that preventive antibiotics for babies continued to two years may have some benefits. However, there is no evidence of the effects on adults or of longterm use.