Abstract
Systemic corticosteroids have become an increasingly common therapy for patients with stable and unstable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), despite uncertain clinical efficacy and known adverse effects. A recently completed, large clinical trial has confirmed that systemic corticosteroids hasten recovery from exacerbations of COPD. Maximum benefits occur with only 2 weeks of therapy. The appropriate role of systemic corticosteroids in stable COPD has not been adequately defined. Prolonged therapy with systemic corticosteroids confers a large risk for developing osteoporotic fractures. Measures for reducing this risk are described.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 422-426 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Monaldi Archives for Chest Disease |
Volume | 54 |
Issue number | 5 |
State | Published - Jan 1 1999 |
Keywords
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Corticosteroids
- Osteoporosis