Pharmacological Management of COPD

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a lung disease whose hallmark features include anomalies in alveolar gas exchange and airflow restriction that cause persistent respiratory symptoms.Dyspnea, productive cough, and, in later stages, tachypnea, tachycardia, and cyanosis are among the clinical symptoms. Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), which usually demonstrate a reduced ratio of Forced Expiratory Volume (FEV) to Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), are the main diagnostic tools. The clinical presentation is also used to make the diagnosis. Imaging investigations are useful in determining the degree of potential consequences and the severity of the disease. Both short- and long-acting bronchodilators are another major form of treatment. Long-acting medications are given on a daily regimen, while short-acting medications are used as rescue medications. Novel medications such as stem cell therapy and monoclonal antibodies are currently under investigation and are showing promising results.