The researchers evaluated budesonide-glycopyrrolate-formoterol and fluticasone-umeclidinium-vilanterol in preventing COPD exacerbations and pneumonia hospitalizations in real-world settings. They provided evidence to guide treatment decisions for COPD patients. In a recent study published in BMJ , a team of researchers from the United States (US) and Canada investigated the comparative effectiveness and safety of two single-inhaler triple therapies for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Background Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition marked by limitations to airflow and exacerbations that worsen the quality of life of the patients and increase the healthcare burden. Triple inhaler therapy, which combines an inhaled corticosteroid with a long-acting beta-agonist and a long-acting muscarinic antagonist, has been recommended for certain patients to manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations. While randomized trials have shown the benefits of individual triple therapy components, direct comparisons of combinations of these three components in different formulations remain limited.
Observational studies have indicated that fluticasone-based treatments may be associated with higher pneumonia risk but fewer exacerbations compared to budesonide-based options. However, these studies often lack direct comparisons, involve varying definitions of symptoms and outcomes, and focus only on selected populations. Additionally, concerns .
