Role of bronchodilators in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) continues to be on the rise. Bronchodilators are first line agents for the symptomatic management of this disease and have proven to be effective in both stable disease status and exacerbations. The stepwise escalation of therapy for COPD according to severity has been outlined in international guidelines. Different classes of bronchodilators exist. The most experience is available for short-acting beta-agonists and anticholinergics. These agents are mainly recommended for the treatment of mild COPD and for symptomatic patients on an as needed basis. Long-acting beta-agonists and anticholinergics have been developed more recently. They are more convenient to use for patients with advanced disease who require maintenance therapy with bronchodilators, and have been shown in this group of patients to provide superior efficacy compared with short-acting agents. Tiotropium, a long-acting anticholinergic, appears to be particularly powerful and may eventually replace ipratropium as the primary agent for COPD treatment. In contrast, the usage of theophylline, which used to be part of the mainstay of treatment for COPD, has declined, mainly secondary to a narrow therapeutic margin and side effects, but it is inexpensive and still has its role. New agents like phosphodiesterase-4-inhibitors are interesting substances that may become important adjuncts in COPD management, but there is limited experience so far. None of the bronchodilators have been shown to change outcome in COPD, but this issue is under active investigation.