Relief of symptoms

Bronchodilators: Inhaled bronchodilators are central to symptom management in COPD and are the most common inhalers prescribed to reduce symptoms.

Based on the severity assessment of COPD, there are two types of bronchodilators: beta2-agonists and antimuscarinics. They both work in COPD and can be combined. Beta2-agnosist tend to be cheaper than antimuscarinics in most healthcare systems:

1. Regular and as-needed use of short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA) or Short-acting antimuscarinic antagonist (SAMA)

2. If symptoms persist, prescribe regular LABAs (Long-acting beta2-agonists) or LAMAs (Long-acting antimuscarinic antagonists)

3. Combination treatment with a LABA and LAMA increases FEV1 and reduces symptoms compared to monotherapy.

The article below from NICE looks at the non-pharmacological management and use of inhaled therapies.