title: [Clinical efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids in COPD].
abstract: The use of inhaled corticosteroids in asthma is regarded as first-line therapy. But the efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains controversial. However data from some large studies provide the evidence that regular treatment with inhaled glucocorticosteroids is appropriate for symptomatic COPD patients with an FEVi<50% predicted and repeated exacerbations. In these studies glucocorticosteroids combined with a long-acting beta-agonist was more effective than the individual components. However, additional studies are needed to clarify the effects of inhaled corticosteroids on mortality and to define their long-term adverse effects.
authors.affiliation: Department of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University.
authors.forename: Hiroshi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Kamoi
authors.forename: Takahito
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Yoshikawa
authors.forename: Kazuto
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Hirata
mesh_terms: D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000188:drug therapy*
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones