Asthma and COPD — role of pharmacy | T&F

Lone therapy with a short-acting beta-2 agonist is the first-line treatment for asthma (Step 1).

The most common risk factor for COPD is cigarette smoking.

The ‘Modified British Medical Research Council (mMRC)’ questionnaire or the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) is used to assess the risk of COPD exacerbations.

The first-line treatment for Group A COPD patients is either a short- or long-acting bronchodilator.

Asthma treatment should be considered for step-down once control has been achieved and maintained for at least three months.

In Ireland, management of respiratory disease is conducted in the primary care setting, with no impact on secondary care.

COPD is fully reversible if treatment guidelines are followed correctly.

The HSE Medicines Management Programme recommends metered dose Inhalers as first-line inhaler types.

Tiotropium is an example of a long-acting antimuscarinic.

The aim of asthma management and treatment is to: Achieve and maintain symptom control. Maintain normal activity levels. Maintain pulmonary function as close to normal as possible. Prevent exacerbations and mortality.