[Current strategy of bronchodilator therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)]

The COPD is slowly but progressive disease, the main purpose of the treatment for COPD is considered to produce a significant bronchodilating effect for maintaining lung functions for long period. Inhaled anticholinergic drug is currently used as the first-line therapy of patients with COPD. The beta 2-adrenergic agonists used be the other choice of bronchodilator for treatment of COPD. The benefit of inhalational steroid on the treatment of COPD is still a matter of debate. The accurate procedure of inhalational device and appropriate use of spacer are particularly important for older patients with COPD. The older patients with COPD can be better treated by the inhaled anticholinergic drug or its combination with beta 2-adrenergic agents.