Expect Fewer Inhaled Steroids to Be Used for COPD

February 2017

You'll see more bronchodilators and fewer inhaled corticosteroids for COPD...due to new guidelines.

Many COPD patients get an inhaled steroid/long-acting beta-agonist combo (Advair, Breo, Symbicort) for persistent symptoms.

But combining two long-acting bronchodilators works better to prevent exacerbations...with a lower risk of pneumonia.

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Table of Contents

Interactions Follow These Rules of Thumb to Manage Drug Interactions
Diabetes Consider Risks and Benefits When Recommending Metformin Add-Ons
Smoking Cessation Expect Less Concern Over Psychiatric Effects With Chantix
Allergic Reactions Help Patients Find an Epinephrine Auto-Injector That Meets Their Needs
NSAIDs Ease Concerns About Using NSAIDs After Most Fractures
COPD Expect Fewer Inhaled Steroids to Be Used for COPD
Muscle Relaxants Recommend Limiting Use of Muscle Relaxants to 7 Days for Acute Low Back Pain
Interactions Watch for Statin Interactions With Pradaxa
Eczema Explain Where New Eucrisa Fits Into Eczema Treatment
Hypotension Consider Med Causes and Suggest Nondrug Measures in Orthostatic Patients
Renal & Urology Explain When Alpha-Blockers May Be Helpful for Kidney Stones
Side Effects Address Taste Disturbances to Prevent Med Adherence Issues
Nasal Sprays Help Clear Up Confusion With Two New OTC Fluticasone Nasal Sprays