COPD medications: an overview of the different types available and their benefits.

Millions of people across the world suffer from the prevalent lung condition known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is marked by signs including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath and can seriously affect a person’s quality of life. Thankfully, there are a number of drugs that can help control COPD symptoms and enhance lung function. We will give an outline of the various COPD medicine kinds and their advantages in this blog.

Bronchodilators

A class of drugs called bronchodilators eases breathing by relaxing the muscles that surround the airways. Bronchodilators come in two primary types: short-acting and long-acting. Long-acting bronchodilators are taken frequently to prevent symptoms from happening whereas short-acting bronchodilators are used as emergency treatments to immediately relieve symptoms.

Inhaled Corticosteroids 

Anti-inflammatory drugs known as inhaled corticosteroids aid in reducing swelling and mucus formation in the airways. They are frequently used with bronchodilators to offer additional symptom relief. To avoid symptoms, inhaled corticosteroids are normally used on a regular basis.

Anti-phosphodiesterase-4 agents

A more recent class of drugs for COPD called PDE4 inhibitors work by reducing inflammation in the airways. Those with severe COPD who frequently experience exacerbations despite taking other medications are typically prescribed them.

Antibiotics

Those with COPD who have a bacterial infection that can worsen symptoms may occasionally be given antibiotics. For those who experience recurrent exacerbations, antibiotics may also be prescribed as a prophylactic strategy.

Oxygen Therapy

Using a mask or nasal cannula, oxygen is inhaled as part of oxygen therapy. People with severe COPD who have low blood oxygen levels are frequently prescribed it. The use of oxygen therapy can lessen symptoms and enhance quality of life.

Combined Medications

Inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators are combined in combination medicines. Those with moderate to severe COPD who need both forms of medication to control their symptoms frequently receive them both as prescriptions.

Benifits of COPD medications

The advantages of COPD drugs differ based on the medication type and the person’s COPD severity. Yet, a few typical advantages are as follows:

  • Improved Lung Capacity
  • Decreased likelihood of hospitalisations and exacerbations
  • Improved quality of life

In conclusion, there are numerous COPD pharmaceutical options, each with unique advantages. For COPD, doctors frequently prescribe bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, combination drugs, PDE4 inhibitors, antibiotics, and oxygen therapy. If you have COPD, it’s critical to collaborate with your healthcare practitioner to choose the right course of action for you based on your unique requirements and symptoms.

It is crucial to understand that COPD drugs are not a cure for the disease and cannot repair lungs that have already suffered damage. They can, however, aid in symptom management and enhance quality of life. SenSights can support in disease managment by allowing your doctors to have a comprehensive view of your health with lots of additional functionality.

If you are interested to find out how SenSights can help you manage your health click here to book an appointment with our client advisor.