Common Misconceptions About CAYSTON®

Facts to address some common misconceptions about the use of CAYSTON

For answers to patients' most frequently asked questions related to CAYSTON and the ALTERA® Nebulizer System, click here.

Misconception:

With 3 doses a day, the total nebulization time for CAYSTON would be too long for busy patients to take.

Fact:

Nebulization with CAYSTON typically requires about 2-3 minutes* for each dose. The 3 daily doses can be taken flexibly to fit within patients' daily routines when taken at least 4 hours apart.

Patients should be in an environment with a flat, stable surface to prepare their CAYSTON dose and where they can sit in a relaxed, upright position.

*This 2-3 minute estimate does not include setting up, cleaning, and disinfecting the ALTERA nebulizing equipment.

Misconception:

Cleaning and disinfecting instructions for the ALTERA Nebulizer System are too confusing.

Fact:

There are a variety of conflicting pieces of information in the cystic fibrosis (CF) community about how to clean and disinfect the ALTERA Nebulizer System, which can be confusing to patients. Steps for cleaning and disinfecting the ALTERA Nebulizer System that have been tested and endorsed by the manufacturer and included in the product label can be found in the Cleaning and Disinfecting section.

As with other reusable nebulizers, proper cleaning and sterilization are essential with the ALTERA Nebulizer Handset. To reduce the risk of infection, illness, and/or injury from contamination and/or improper use:

  • Clean the ALTERA Nebulizer Handset after each dose to prevent the Aerosol Head from clogging
  • Disinfect at the end of every treatment day to reduce bacterial contamination
Misconception:

The ALTERA Nebulizer Handset can be used safely with other CF medications.

Fact:

It is very important NOT to use any other medications in the ALTERA Nebulizer Handset. CAYSTON is the only product to demonstrate safety and efficacy in the ALTERA Nebulizer System. The use of drugs other than CAYSTON could result in potential incorrect dosage or overdoses of medication.

Additionally, CAYSTON should not be mixed with any other drugs in the ALTERA Nebulizer Handset.

Misconception:

Three-times-a-day dosing with CAYSTON must be taken at the same times each day.

Fact:

Dosing times with CAYSTON are flexible enough to allow patients to take it according to their individual schedules, as long as they wait at least 4 hours between each dose. For example, patients may choose to take their first CAYSTON dose in the morning, the second one after school/work, and the third dose before bed.

Patients should be in an environment with a flat, stable surface to prepare their CAYSTON dose and where they can sit in a relaxed, upright position.

Misconception:

Patients need to take all 3 CAYSTON doses with their ALTERA Nebulizer System at home.

Fact:

Your patients can take their daily supply of CAYSTON with the ALTERA Nebulizer System away from home because the treatment is portable.

Since the ALTERA Nebulizer System is small, lightweight, and battery operated, it gives patients the flexibility to take their CAYSTON inhalation treatment away from home, as long as they can use a flat, stable surface to prepare their doses and are able to sit in a relaxed, upright position. Your patients can take their 3 doses throughout their day as long as they're taken 4 hours apart. Four new, standard AA batteries provide about 2 hours of continuous treatment. Rechargeable AA batteries may also be used. Patients should make sure to have an extra set of batteries at all times. The AC power supply provided is optional.

Patients should mix (reconstitute) CAYSTON with the saline only when ready to take a dose.

Misconception:

Patients need to refrigerate their CAYSTON at all times.

Fact:

CAYSTON vials and diluent ampules should be stored in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) until needed. Your patients should keep their CAYSTON refrigerated, but they may leave CAYSTON and saline at room temperature (up to 25°C/77°F) for up to 28 days.

Thus, patients can safely carry all 3 CAYSTON doses with them throughout the day, at room temperature, along with their ALTERA Nebulizer Handset. Patients should be advised to not use CAYSTON if it has been stored at room temperature for more than 28 days. CAYSTON should also be protected from light.

It is important to note that the shipment of CAYSTON to a patient's home comes with an ice pack. This is to help protect CAYSTON in the event of unusual or unexpected high temperatures during shipment.

Learn About the Important Safety Information for CAYSTON
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