Medication can help reduce COPD symptoms. There are many different COPD medicines your doctor can prescribe depending on your current condition and medical history. Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the COPD medications that are most effective and cause the least amount of side effects for you.

To date, no existing COPD medication has been shown to change the decline in lung function, however there are clinical trials underway which are showing promise. If you are interested in participating in one of these clinical trials, click here for more information.

As COPD progresses, the amount of medications required to control symptoms typically increases. Many people find it difficult to remember how to manage each COPD medication at first. Your doctor or healthcare provider should explain what each medicine does, as well as how and when to use them. If you are unsure about any of your COPD medications, make sure you ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more explanation. Below is a basic description of some of the most common COPD medications but this information should not be used as a substitute professional medical advice.

Bronchodilators

Bronchodilators help you breathe easier by relaxing the smooth muscle around the airways in your lungs, making them wider to improve airflow.

There are three types of bronchodilators: 

beta-agonists
anticholinergics
methylxanthines

The choice between each bronchodilator or combination therapy depends upon availability and individual response in terms of symptom relief and side effects.