Ipratropium bromide versus short acting beta-2 agonists for stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a condition associated with high morbidity, mortality and cost to the community. Patients often report symptomatic improvement with short-acting beta-2 agonists (SABA) and anticholinergic bronchodilator medications, and both are recommended in COPD guidelines. These medications have different mechanisms of action and therefore could have an additive effect when combined.

Objectives

To compare the relative efficacy and safety of regular long term use (at least four weeks) of ipratropium bromide and short- acting beta-2 agonist therapy in patients with stable COPD.

Search strategy

The Cochrane Airways Group Specialised Register of Trials was searched. Bibliographies were checked to identify relevant cross-refere

SUBMITTER: Appleton S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6513456 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature