Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory disease characterized by a restricted flow of air in the lungs which leads to difficulty breathing.

This condition primarily affects smokers, and exposure to environmental pollutants can also worsen the symptoms of COPD. As of now, there is no cure for this disease, but early diagnosis and prompt treatment can reduce the severity of symptoms and improve the quality of life.

In recent years, doctors have found that a combination of two drugs, an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist, has a significant impact on reducing COPD-related deaths.

This combination has been found to lower the mortality rate by as much as 42%. In this article, we explore how this combination of drugs works and its effectiveness in treating COPD.

What are Inhaled Corticosteroids?

Inhaled corticosteroids are a type of medication that is used to treat respiratory diseases. These medications help to reduce inflammation in the airways, which can make it easier for a person to breathe.

They are usually prescribed in combination with other medications, such as bronchodilators, which help to relax the muscles around the airways.

Inhaled corticosteroids are available in several different types, including powders, sprays, and solutions. They are usually self-administered using a device known as an inhaler.

For people with COPD, inhaled corticosteroids are usually prescribed in combination with a long-acting beta-agonist.

What are Long-Acting Beta-Agonists?

Long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) are medications that help to relax the muscles around the airways. This allows the airways to open up, making it easier for a person to breathe. LABAs are usually prescribed in combination with an inhaled corticosteroid.

This combination of medications is known as a combination product.

LABA medications are available in several different types, including powders, sprays, and solutions. They are also usually self-administered using a device known as an inhaler.

LABAs are not usually prescribed as a standalone treatment for COPD, as this can increase the risk of serious side effects.

How do inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists work together?

The primary goal of combining an inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting beta-agonist is to reduce inflammation in the airways and improve airflow.

The inhaled corticosteroid helps to reduce inflammation in the airways, while the long-acting beta-agonist helps to relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier for air to pass through.

To be most effective, the combination of medications needs to be taken on a regular basis, as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

The medications should be taken at the same time each day, and it may take several weeks before a person begins to notice an improvement in their breathing.

What are the benefits of the combination of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists?

Several studies have shown that the combination of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists can significantly improve lung function and reduce the risk of COPD-related hospitalizations and deaths.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that the use of a combination product containing an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist reduced the risk of COPD-related deaths by 42% compared to placebo.

Additionally, the study found that the use of the combination product reduced the risk of exacerbations, or periods of worsened symptoms, by 25% compared to placebo.

Another study published in the International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease found that the use of a combination product containing an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist improved lung function and reduced the number of exacerbations compared to the use of inhaled corticosteroids alone.

What are the potential side effects of the combination of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists?

Like all medications, the combination of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists can cause side effects. The most common side effects associated with this combination include:.

Hoarseness
Sore throat
Oral thrush
Cough
Headache
Nausea

It is important to note that not everyone who takes the combination of inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonists will experience side effects.

Additionally, the majority of side effects associated with these medications are mild and go away on their own.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and a long-acting beta-agonist has been found to significantly reduce the risk of COPD-related hospitalizations and deaths.

This combination of medications works by reducing inflammation in the airways and relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier for a person to breathe. While this combination of medications may cause some side effects, the benefits of this treatment outweigh the risks and can significantly improve the quality of life for people with COPD.