Evaluating inhaler strategies for treating COPD lung-attacks

Assessment of Optimal Inhaler Therapy Strategies in the Management of Acute Exacerbations of COPD (AECOPDs) Using Oscillometry: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study is testing which combination of inhalers works best for people with COPD during lung-attacks to help them breathe easier and feel better.

Quick facts

• Study type: Observational
• Enrollment: 43 (estimated)
• Ages: 40 Years and up
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (other)
• Locations: 1 site (Montréal, Quebec)
• Trial ID: NCT06495047 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to determine the most effective combination of inhalers for treating acute exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Participants will undergo oscillometry and dyspnea score measurements at various intervals after receiving their bronchodilator treatments. The study will compare the effects of short-acting bronchodilators alone versus a combination of short-acting and long-acting bronchodilators during lung-attacks. The goal is to identify which treatment strategy best improves airflow and alleviates symptoms during these critical episodes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 40 and older with a confirmed COPD diagnosis and currently experiencing an acute exacerbation.

Not a fit: Patients without a COPD diagnosis or those whose acute exacerbation is not the primary reason for their medical visit may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment protocols for patients experiencing acute COPD exacerbations, potentially reducing hospitalizations.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on COPD treatments, this specific approach to comparing inhaler strategies during acute exacerbations is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Males and females, age ≥ 40, who are former/current smokers with a ≥10 pack-year smoking history.
2. COPD previously confirmed by spirometry (FEV1/FVC \< 0.7) of any severity (GOLD 1-4).
3. Currently experiencing and receiving treatment for a physician-diagnosed AECOPD with both long-acting and short-acting bronchodilators prescribed by their treating team.
4. Ability to participate without supplemental oxygen during the oscillometry tests.
5. Ability to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. No COPD diagnosis.
2. AECOPD is not the principal cause of urgent care visit, emergency department visit, or hospitalization.
3. Treatment strategy in which LABDs were held by the treating medical team (SABD-only approach).
4. Participant already performed spirometry on the same day of testing.
5. Inability to provide informed consent.

Where this trial is running

Montréal, Quebec

• McGill University Health Centre — Montréal, Quebec, Canada (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Bryan A. Ross, MD, FRCPC, MSc (Epi, Physiol)

Conditions: COPD, COPD Exacerbation Acute