Drug Information Update- FDA approves TOBI Podhaler to treat a type of bacterial lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients

The Division of Drug Information (DDI) is CDER's focal point for public inquiries. We serve the public by providing information on human drug products and drug product regulation by FDA.

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved TOBI Podhaler (tobramycin inhalation powder) for the management of cystic fibrosis patients with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that causes lung infections.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects about 30,000 pediatric and adult patients in the United States. Cystic fibrosis causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus that builds up in the lungs and blocks airways. The buildup of mucus makes it easy for bacteria like P. aeruginosa to grow and cause a chronic lung infection that, over time, can severely damage the lungs. Many patients with cystic fibrosis are treated with antibiotics using a nebulizer machine.
TOBI Podhaler, a plastic, handheld inhaler device, contains a dry powder formulation of tobramycin, an antibiotic used to treat P. aeruginosa infection. The powder is inhaled twice daily using the Podhaler device for 28 days. Patients should then stop TOBI Podhaler therapy for 28 days before resuming again.
For more information please visit: TOBI Podhaler.
Press Announcements > FDA approves TOBI Podhaler to treat a type of bacterial lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients