Therapie der stabilen COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is increasingly being recognized as a systemic disease, especially at advanced disease stages. The very different COPD phenotypes require an individualized therapeutic approach. Bronchodilators remain the basis of long-term therapy. Long-acting ß2-agonists and the long-acting anticholinergic tiotropium led to a further improvement in the management of COPD. Inhaled corticosteroids prevent frequent exacerbations in patients with more severe disease. At GOLD stages III and IV more patients will need evaluation and therapy of conditions such as chronic respiratory failure, myopathy, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, depression, and nutritional deficits.