Expert: Sue Enlow - 6/2/2005

Question
Sue,

Do you know what advances there have been in the treatment of COPD? And, what new and/or alternative treatments are there for COPD?

Thank you,
John McKinzie

Answer
Hi John,

Thank you for your question. I hope that I can answer it adequately. If not, please feel free to ask me another question. I know that sometimes by providing information, it can fuel more questions.  

There is a new medication on the market called Tiotropium or Spiriva. It is a long acting inhaled anticholinergic medication. It is a powered inhaler that is taken once a day and provides treatment for up to 24 hours. It is not used for acute or emergency treatment, but is instead used for maintenance and chronic care. It is manufactured by the privately-owned German pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim, and has shown promising results in case studies. This is the latest COPD treatment to hit the market that I know of.

The most common ‘emergency' medication used right now is Albuterol, also known as Ventolin or Proventil. There is now a medication available called Lev-Albuterol, or Xopenex. It basically works the same as Albuterol but it lasts longer and it doesn't have the side affects of increased heart rate and jitters or shaking. This medication has been out for quite a while now and its use is widespread.

There are other ‘alternative' treatments that have been around for a while as well. I don't know if you have heard of Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (LVRS). It is a surgery where the surgeon removes small wedges of damaged lung tissue, usually about 20 to 30 percent of each lung. Removing some damaged air sacs reduces the size of the lungs. As a result, the diaphragm contracts and relaxes more effectively and efficiently, and the patient can breathe better. Although this procedure doesn't work for everyone and isn't without risks, I have seen incredible improvement from this surgery.

Another option is Pulmonary Rehabilitation. These programs generally provide educational activities, a progressive exercise program and a support group. The program will teach you about COPD, how it affects your body, about your medications and how they work. The exercise program will help you learn to be more active and exercise with less shortness of breath. A lot of patients have sworn by their Pulmonary Rehab program.

Probably the most important part of managing COPD is to have a good doctor or Pulmonologist that you work closely with. It is very important to work with your doctor to not only monitor your COPD, but to also make appropriate changes in your treatment as needed. I also recommend getting a second opinion if you don't feel comfortable or satisfied with your doctor. Talk to other people with COPD. Word of mouth is sometimes the best way to find the right doctor. Always ask your doctor lots of questions, and make sure that he or she answers them in a way that you understand. A lot of people are intimidated by doctors and don't want to make them take the time to explain everything thoroughly. Remember that it's the doctor's jog to do just that.

I hope that this information is helpful to you.

Sue