Pharmacological treatment of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Abstract

Pharmacological treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) aims to alleviate symptoms and reduce the future risk of events such as exacerbations, disease progression and death. The heterogeneity of COPD results in variable responses to pharmacological interventions. COPD treatment has evolved towards a precision medicine approach, integrating clinical and biomarker information in order to optimize treatment decisions for each individual. The evidence supporting the use of blood eosinophil counts to predict responses to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in COPD patients has led to the adoption of this biomarker for use in clinical practice. The development of novel double and triple inhaled combination treatments containing long-acting bronchodilators with or without ICS has involved some landmark randomized controlled trials in COPD patients. These studies have provided valuable evidence to direct the use of different classes of combination treatments. However, there are still some unresolved questions and debates. This review article describes the advances in the pharmacological treatment of COPD, particularly the personalization of treatment. The evidence base for current recommendations is discussed, and controversial issues are dissected.

• Authors: Dave Singh
• Journal: Respirology (Carlton, Vic.) (Respirology) Vol. 26 Issue 7 Pg. 643-651 (07 2021) ISSN: 1440-1843 [Electronic] Australia
• PMID: 33829619 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
• Copyright: © 2021 The Author. Respirology published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

Chemical References

• Adrenal Cortex Hormones
• Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists
• Bronchodilator Agents

Topics

• Administration, Inhalation
• Adrenal Cortex Hormones (therapeutic use)
• Adrenergic beta-2 Receptor Agonists (therapeutic use)
• Bronchodilator Agents (therapeutic use)
• Disease Progression
• Drug Therapy, Combination
• Humans
• Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive (drug therapy)