Related Experiment Videos
Oral corticosteroids for stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
J A E Walters1, E H Walters, R Wood-Baker
1Discipline of Medicine, University of Tasmania Medical School, Discipline of Medicine, University of Tasmania, 43 Collins Street, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia, 7001. jaew@utas.edu.au
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|July 22, 2005
Summary
Short-term high-dose oral corticosteroids may improve lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. However, long-term use is not recommended due to potential harmful side effects.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disorder linked to smoking.
- It is characterized by irreversible airflow limitation and lung inflammation.
- Corticosteroids are considered for their anti-inflammatory properties in COPD management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of oral corticosteroids on the health status of individuals with stable COPD.
- To determine the efficacy and safety of oral steroid treatment in COPD patients.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of randomized controlled trials comparing oral steroids with placebo in stable COPD patients.
- Searches conducted in Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register and MEDLINE.
- Data extraction and analysis performed by independent reviewers.
Main Results:
- High-dose oral steroids (>/= 30 mg prednisolone) showed short-term improvement in FEV1 (lung function) over two weeks.
- A significant increase in FEV1 response (>20% from baseline) was observed with high-dose treatment.
- No significant benefits in quality of life, functional capacity, or exacerbation risk were noted; increased adverse effects like hyperglycemia and adrenal suppression occurred.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports short-term use of higher-dose oral corticosteroids for improving lung function in COPD.
- Long-term use of oral steroids, especially at doses <10-15 mg prednisolone, lacks supporting evidence.
- Potential adverse effects preclude recommending long-term high-dose oral steroid use in most COPD patients.