Could a cystic fibrosis drug unclog Kids' ear tubes?

NCT ID NCT00419380

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) ear drops can unclog tympanostomy tubes in children better than standard ofloxacin drops. 41 children aged 1 to 18 with clogged tubes received either treatment for 7 days. The main goal was to see if the tube was open at day 14.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

dornase alfa (Pulmozyme) ear drops

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new way to unclog ear tubes in children, potentially avoiding the need for tube replacement surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed phase 4 trial with only 41 participants. The drug is used off-label, and it may not work better than standard ear drops. Risks include ear irritation or lack of improvement.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

otitis media

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The Children's Hospital

    Denver, Colorado, 80218, United States