Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a long-term respiratory condition characterized by inflammation in the lungs and airways. It can cause difficulty breathing, coughing, and wheezing.

Managing COPD is essential for maintaining a good quality of life, and medications are an important part of the treatment. There are two main types of inhalers used for COPD management: bronchodilators and corticosteroids. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at two important formulations – LABA and ICS – and how they are used in COPD management.

What is LABA?

LABA stands for long-acting beta-agonist and is a type of bronchodilator used to keep the airways open in people with COPD. These medications work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.

LABA medications are typically prescribed as inhalers and are often used in combination with other medications such as corticosteroids to manage COPD.

Commonly prescribed LABA medications include:.

Salmeterol (Serevent)
Formoterol (Foradil, Perforomist)
Indacaterol (Arcapta Neohaler)

LABA medications should be used regularly to be effective. They are not a rescue medication and should not be used to treat sudden breathing problems. If you experience sudden shortness of breath, you may need a rescue inhaler such as albuterol.

What is ICS?

ICS stands for inhaled corticosteroid and is a type of medication used to reduce airway inflammation in people with COPD. These medications work by reducing swelling and irritation in the airways, making it easier to breathe.

Inhaled corticosteroids are usually prescribed in combination with LABA medications to manage COPD.

Commonly prescribed ICS medications include:.

Fluticasone (Flovent, Arnuity Ellipta)
Budesonide (Pulmicort)
Mometasone (Asmanex)

ICS medications should be used regularly to reduce inflammation in the airways. They are not a rescue medication and should not be used to treat sudden breathing problems.

If you experience sudden shortness of breath, you may need a rescue inhaler such as albuterol.

Combination Therapy

Combination therapy refers to the use of LABA and ICS medications together in one inhaler. This type of therapy is often used in people with moderate to severe COPD who have experienced frequent exacerbations.

Combination therapy can help reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations and improve overall lung function.

Commonly prescribed combination medications include:.

Fluticasone and Salmeterol (Advair)
Budesonide and Formoterol (Symbicort)
Mometasone and Formoterol (Dulera)

Combination therapy should be used regularly to manage COPD and prevent exacerbations. These medications are not rescue medications and should not be used to treat sudden breathing problems.

Side Effects

All medications can cause side effects, and LABA and ICS medications are no exception. Common side effects of LABA medications include headaches, tremors, and increased heart rate.

Common side effects of ICS medications include thrush, hoarseness, and sore throat. Combination medications can cause any of the above side effects as well as a higher risk of pneumonia.

If you experience any of the above side effects, speak with your healthcare provider about adjusting your medications. It’s important to balance the benefits of COPD management with the potential risks of medication side effects.

Conclusion

Managing COPD is essential for maintaining a good quality of life, and medications are an important part of the treatment. LABA and ICS medications are two important formulations used to manage COPD and should be used regularly to be effective.

Combination therapy can be beneficial for people with moderate to severe COPD who have experienced frequent exacerbations. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your COPD management plan.