WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT WITH TIOTROPIUM IN PATIENTS WITH EARLY STAGE COPD

Abstract

The beneficial effects of pharmacotherapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are well established. However, there are few data for treatment in the early stages of the disease. Tiotropium reduces the rate of decline of lung function in patients with moderate COPD. In patients with moderate COPD not on maintenance therapy, tiotropium is associated with significant benefits in disease progression. These findings and the other improvements in outcomes suggest that treatment of COPD should begin at an early stage of the disease.