COPD exacerbations in general practice: variability in oral prednisolone courses.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The use of oral corticosteroids as treatment of COPD exacerbations in primary care is well established and evidence-based. However, the most appropriate dosage regimen has not been determined and remains controversial. Corticosteroid therapy is associated with a number of undesirable side effects, including hyperglycaemias, so differences in prescribing might be relevant. This study examines the differences between GPs in dosage and duration of prednisolone treatment in patients with a COPD exacerbation. It also investigates the number of general practitioners (GPs) who adjust their treatment according to the presence of diabetic co-morbidity.

Methods

Cross-sectional study among 219 GPs and 25 GPs in training, located in the Northern part of the Netherlands.

Re

SUBMITTER: de Vries M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3323421 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature