Dietary supplement use in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis

The use of dietary supplements and their perceived effectiveness in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) were studied.

A descriptive survey, comprising both open- and closed-ended questions, was developed to assess current and past use of dietary supplements, identify sources of dietary supplement information, determine the perceived effectiveness of these dietary supplements, and evaluate families' knowledge of regulations regarding dietary supplements.

A total of 121 pediatric CF patients and their families completed the survey. Assessment of dietary supplement use showed that 19% of patients (n = 23) were currently using dietary supplements and 10% (n = 12) reported past dietary supplement use. A total of 5 patients reported both current and past use of dietary supplements. Almost 40% of the patients who reported dietary supplement use did not inform their primary care provider about their use. While many factors may influence a patient's decision to begin therapy with a dietary supplement, 20% (n = 6) of patients felt their physician was most influential. Most patients (n = 104, 86%) correctly believed that dietary supplements are not regulated in the same manner as other prescription medications; however, only 60% (n = 72) would change the way dietary supplements are regulated.

The use of dietary supplements in pediatric patients with CF was common, although few patients and families perceived it as effective for treating CF.