COPD - Treatment

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  • COPD - Treatment
  • Steroids
  • Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, are medications used to reduce swelling in the breathing tubes. 

    These drugs are not the same as anabolic steroids (misused by athletes) to build muscles. Steroids are usually taken by inhaler or pill. 

    The inhaled steroid may be combined with a bronchodilator. Inhaled steroids can be given in small doses, resulting in fewer side effects. 
  • They do not work quickly, however, and may take a few weeks or more before you notice the benefits. Pills can act faster (within 24 hours) than inhaled steroids, but can cause more side effects.






  • Reference:
    ATS PATIENT INFORMATION SERIES & PATIENT HEALTH SERIES
    http://patients.thoracic.org/information-series/en/resources/medicines-used-to-treat-copd.pdf

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