Effectiveness of Inhaled Steroids in the Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Evidence indicates that there is a substantial inflammatory component associated with COPD and that this inflammation is increased during the acute exacerbation. The role of inhaled steroids in COPD has been established through a variety of studies. Inhaled steroids are most effective when given in conjunction with long-acting beta agonists. In those circumstances, patients have an improvement in quality of life, lessening of dyspnea, reduced use of rescue medications, and, in some studies, fewer exacerbations. The side effects associated with inhaled steroid use include an increase in the incidence of pneumonia and cataracts. National recommendations are for the use of inhaled steroids only in conjunction with a long-acting beta agonist.