COPD
Medications used to manage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What is COPD?
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a group of lung diseases that make it hard to breathe and worsen over time. In healthy lungs, airways and air sacs are elastic, allowing air to flow in and out easily. In COPD, this flow is reduced due to problems such as less elastic airways, destruction of air sac walls, thickened airway walls, and excess mucus production.
Symptoms of COPD
At first, you may not notice any symptoms or may only have mild symptoms. As COPD progresses, symptoms can become more severe. Common symptoms include frequent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath during physical activity, and tightness in the chest. Some individuals may also experience frequent respiratory infections and, in severe cases, weight loss and swelling in the legs.
Causes and Types of COPD
The main cause of COPD is long-term exposure to irritants that damage the lungs, with cigarette smoke being the most common. Other irritants include secondhand smoke, air pollution, and chemical fumes. COPD includes two main types: emphysema, which affects the air sacs, and chronic bronchitis, which involves inflammation of the airway lining. Many people have a combination of both types.
Why Treating COPD Matters
COPD can lead to serious complications if left untreated. It can cause significant breathing difficulties and impact your overall health and quality of life. Early treatment can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve your ability to stay active.
How is COPD Treated?
While there is no cure for COPD, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Important lifestyle changes include quitting smoking and avoiding lung irritants. A range of prescription medicines may be used to help open airways and reduce inflammation. Vaccines for flu and pneumonia are also recommended, along with oxygen therapy for those with severe COPD.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience symptoms such as persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing, it is important to see a healthcare provider. They can perform tests to diagnose COPD and recommend appropriate treatment.
Medications used to treat COPD
Several classes of medication treat copd. Which is right depends on your health — that is a decision for you and your provider. Compare prices and coupons on any of them:
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Frequently asked questions
What are the risk factors for COPD?
Risk factors for COPD include smoking, long-term exposure to lung irritants, age (most people are at least 40 when symptoms begin), genetics, and having asthma.
Can COPD be cured?
There is no cure for COPD, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
What tests are used to diagnose COPD?
Diagnosis may involve a medical history review, family history, and various tests such as lung function tests, chest x-rays, or CT scans.
What lifestyle changes can help with COPD?
Important lifestyle changes include quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, and following a nutritional and physical activity plan.
What are the symptoms of COPD?
Symptoms can include frequent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, and frequent respiratory infections.
Compare prices for copd medications
12 medications — select one to compare prices and coupons.
- Acetylcysteine
- Aminophylline
- Aminophylline Anhydrous
- Arformoterol Tartrate
- Ipratropium Albuterol
- Ipratropium Bromide
- Metaproterenol Sulfate
- Roflumilast
- Sulfamethoxazole
- Sulfamethoxazole Trimethoprim
- Theophylline
- Theophylline Er
Condition information adapted from MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Medication list sourced from RxClass (MED-RT, U.S. National Library of Medicine). Inclusion does not imply a medication is right for you.
Medical disclaimer: This information is provided for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a licensed physician, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.