Inhaled corticosteroids

Inhaled corticosteroids inhibit airway inflammation, reverse β-receptor down-regulation, and inhibit leukotriene and cytokine production. They improve symptoms and short-term pulmonary function in some patients, are additive to the effect of bronchodilators, and diminish the frequency of COPD exacerbations. They are indicated for patients who have repeated exacerbations or symptoms despite optimal bronchodilator therapy.

Combinations of a LABA (salmeterol or formoterol) and an inhaled corticosteroid (fluticasone propionate or budesonide) are more effective than either drug alone in the treatment of stable disease. Oral or systemic corticosteroids should usually not be used to treat chronic stable COPD.

Reference

1. Global Initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease: Global strategy for the diagnosis, management, and prevention of COPD. 2010. www.goldcopd.org