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Treatment for COPD may include bronchodilators that open up air passages in the lungs and antibiotics. Doctors prescribe several classes of bronchodilators are prescribed for COPD. One class includes the fast-acting beta2-agonists such as albuterol, which helps to open narrowed airways. Anticholinergic bronchodilators such as ipratropium bromide and theophylline derivatives also help to open airways affected by COPD. Long-acting bronchodilators help relieve constriction of airways and help to prevent the bronchospasms associated with COPD. Corticosteroids are another large class of bronchodilators that includes both the inhaled and oral forms . Doctors often prescribe antibiotics to patients . Other kinds of medications may also be prescribed to manage conditions associated with COPD. These can include expectorants, which help loosen and expel mucus secretions from the airways and can make breathing easier. Diuretics are given to avoid excess water retention associated with right-heart failure, which may occur in some COPD patients. Digitalis (usually in the form of digoxin) strengthens the force of the heartbeat. I t is used with caution in COPD patients, especially if their blood oxygen tensions are low, since they become vulnerable to arrhythmia when taking this drug. Painkillers, cough suppressants, and sleeping pills are sometimes prescribed to help manage the discomfort associated with COPD. These medications should be used only with caution because they can depress breathing to some extent. |
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