While there is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis (CF), treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life. The primary challenges often involve the respiratory system. To facilitate mucus clearance and open airways, patients typically receive inhaled medications and undergo respiratory physiotherapy.

Managing infections is also crucial for individuals with CF. In cases of increased cough and sputum production, antibiotic therapy is administered orally, via inhalation, or intravenously.

Cystic fibrosis significantly impacts the pancreas, leading to pancreatic insufficiency in approximately 85% of patients. This often results in malabsorption, characterized by fatty stools, and can impair growth and development. For these patients, nutritional management, including a high-energy, high-calorie diet and enzyme replacement therapy taken with meals, is essential.

A comprehensive treatment approach for cystic fibrosis typically includes:

* Medications to clear airways and thin mucus
* Respiratory physiotherapy
* Antibiotic therapy (oral, inhaled, or intravenous)
* Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy
* Specialized nutritional support, often a high-energy and high-calorie diet
* Stool softeners
* Surgical interventions for issues affecting the nose, sinuses, or intestines, when necessary
* Physical therapy