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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 1999; 20(4): 279-288
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1021325
Copyright © 1999 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Current Concepts in Pharmacologic Management Of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Fernanda M. V. Boueri*, Barry J. Make
  • From the Division of Pulmonary Sciences and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine National Jewish Medical and Research Center and University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado.
*Supported by Fundacção de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP), Brazil
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Publication History

Publication Date:
22 April 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The goals of pharmacologic management of COPD are to enhance smoking cessation, alleviate dyspnea by promoting bronchodilatation, treating exacerbations, and preserving lung function. The step approach to the use of bronchodilators based upon the degree of dyspnea is reviewed with particular attention to anticholinergic agents and beta agonists. Bronchodilators are useful not only to improve lung function but also to enhance health-related quality of life. Although inhaled steroids may prevent decline in lung function and reduce the number of exacerbations, their precise role awaits completion of further studies currently in progress. Exacerbations should be treated with antibiotics, and the choice of agents depends upon the severity of the underlying lung disease.

Key Words:

Anticholinergic bronchodilators - beta agonist bronchodilators - antibiotics - acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis - corticosteroids