Inhaled corticosteroids with combination inhaled long-acting beta2-agonists and long-acting muscarinic antagonists for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Background: Management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) commonly involves long-acting bronchodilators including beta-agonists (LABA) and muscarinic antagonists (LAMA). In individuals with persistent symptoms or frequent exacerbations, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are also used. LABA and LAMA bronchodilators are now available in single combination inhalers. However, the benefits and risks of adding ICS to combination LABA/LAMA inhalers remains unclear. Objectives: To assess the effect of adding an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) to combination long-acting beta2-agonist (LABA)/long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) inhalers for the treatment of stable COPD. Search methods: We ca..