title: [Up-to-date COPD treatment].
abstract: The strategy for the treatment and management for COPD has markedly changed. COPD has been classified as a chronic respiratory disease characterized by an irreversible airflow obstruction, but active therapeutic interventions have not been established. However, the development of pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapy and the accumulation of clinical evidence have improved the situation. The newly developed long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA) and beta-agonists (LABA), inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), the combination of LABA/LAMA and ICS/LABA, and comprehensive respiratory rehabilitation have significantly improved the symptoms such as cough, sputum, and dyspnea, as well as exercise tolerance, daily activity, and quality of life, and prevent the exacerbation of COPD. Furthermore, LAMA and ICS/LABA can prevent disease progression and improve the severity and survival. It has been demonstrated that inflammation of the lung in COPD affects the whole body and increases co-morbidities, which affect the QOL and survival. We should treat co-morbidities simultaneously. We should view COPD as a preventable and treatable disease, and early, active interventions involving pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments not only improve symptoms, but also reduce disease progression and improve the survival of COPD patients.
authors: Keisaku
authors: K
authors: Fujimoto
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018450:Disease Progression; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D011379:Prognosis; D029424:Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D013995:Time
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones