Year in Review 2014: COPD

Abstract

Clinicians responsible for treating pulmonary disease often encounter challenges in the management of patients with COPD. This is due in part to the number of drugs now available to ameliorate COPD symptoms and the complexity of adhering to good disease management programs. Each aspect of treatment is a critical component in improving outcomes for these patients. The purpose of this article is to review some of the most significant findings regarding the treatment of COPD, with emphasis on disease management and pharmacotherapy.

Keywords: COPD exacerbation; disease management; exercise training; inhaled therapy; pharmacotherapy; pulmonary rehabilitation; respiratory therapist-driven protocols.