Clinical evaluation
CF
CYSTIC FIBROSIS, MEDICATION SIDE EFFECTS
Personal data were gathered through taking history and physical examinations of subjects in the time of their visits. During their first visit, the usage of each treatment was described to the subjects who met the inclusion criteria. FeNO test (by the FeNO monitor NO breath®, a product of Bed font UK, which has a diagnostic range below 25 ppb in patients with cystic fibrosis), weight and height were measured. In the next stage, all the standard and required medicines of the patients were prescribed and as an additional treatment, CHS was also prescribed. Patients were instructed on the administration of CHS, with those weighing less than 30 kg or under 12 years advised to take 10 cc per dose, while children weighing over 30 kg or older than 12 years were recommended 5 cc per dose. This medication was to be dissolved in 100 cc of boiled water and taken twice daily, 30 min after a meal. The standard treatment of cystic fibrosis includes the following: chest physiotherapy after nebulizing hypertonic saline, pancreatin enzymes (creon) and fat-soluble vitamins including vitamins A, E, D, K. Follow-up assessments occurred at weeks 2, 4, 8, and 10 via telephone, during which patients were queried about medication usage and potential side effects. Additionally, at weeks 6 and 12, patients received in-person examinations by a pediatric pulmonologist. At the end of week 12, FeNO test was performed (to determine the effect of CHS on the amount of NO in the airways of CF patients), and medication side effects were also asked from patients or their parents to record any side effects Fig. CONSORT flow diagram-modified for non-randomized trial design