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POEM |
Effective Treatment Options for Patients with COPD
Clinical Question: What treatments are effective for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
Setting: Various (meta-analysis)
Study Design: Meta-analysis (randomized controlled trials)
Synopsis: The authors of this study thoroughly reviewed the literature for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating treatments of COPD. Data sources included MEDLINE, the Cochrane Registry, bibliographies, and experts in the field. Only randomized, placebo-controlled trials with blinded outcome assessments and nearly complete follow-up were included. The authors did not specify the percentage of RCTs with or without concealed allocation assignment.
Long-acting beta2 agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, and anticholinergics reduced exacerbation rates in patients with moderate to severe COPD, but did not affect overall mortality rates. The combination of steroids with long-acting beta2 agonists was more effective than either agent alone. Pulmonary rehabilitation improved health status in patients with moderate to severe disease but had no effect on long-term survival or hospitalization rates. Home oxygen therapy significantly improved survival, but only in patients with partial pressure of arterial oxygen (Pao2) less than 60 mm Hg, and not in those without hypoxia at rest. Disease management programs had mixed results, and no benefits were found with noninvasive mechanical ventilation.
Bottom Line: Effective treatments for COPD include smoking cessation, long-acting beta2 agonists, inhaled corticosteroids, anticholinergics, pulmonary rehabilitation, and home oxygen therapy (but only in patients with Pao2 less than 60 mm Hg at rest). Uncertain or nonbeneficial interventions include disease management programs and noninvasive mechanical ventilation. (Level of Evidence: 1a)
DAVID SLAWSON, M.D.
STUDY REFERENCE: Sin DD, et al. Contemporary management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: scientific review. JAMA November 5, 2003;290:2301-12.
Used with permission from Slawson D. Steroids, bronchodilators, O2, anticolinergics good for COPD. Accessed January 6, 2004, at: http://www.InfoPOEMs.com.
Copyright © 2004 by the American Academy of
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