Combined long-acting bronchodilator single therapy for COPD

Abstract

Introduction: In COPD, the long-acting bronchodilators are not always able to provide an appropriate bronchodilator effect in terms of amplitude and duration and this can result in increased severity of respiratory symptoms and in worsening of health status. Combined long-acting bronchodilators can address this limitation.

Areas covered: Analysis of a recent study evaluating the efficacy and safety of 26 weeks of therapy with glycopyrronium+indacaterol single inhaler (QVA149) versus each component, versus tiotropium and versus placebo.

Expert opinion: Such a combination can provide a superior and sustained bronchodilator effect and can minimize the respiratory symptoms resulting from a suboptimally inhibited bronchoconstriction.