Inhaled Glucocorticoids in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of disorders characterized by a poorly reversible limitation of airflow that is usually progressive and associated with a persistent inflammatory response of the lungs. It is caused by at least three distinct pathologic processes that may occur separately or concurrently (chronic bronchitis accompanied by the hypersecretion of mucus; the destruction of alveolar walls, which causes emphysema; and chronic asthma).Treating COPD is challenging. However, clinical studies of asthma have found that regular treatment with an inhaled glucocorticoid is effective in reducing symptoms and the frequency of exacerbations and in improving pulmonary function. . . .