Subject: Effect of ICS+LABA on FunctionAl (Spirometer findings) and Clinical ouTcomes (need of rescue medicine) in newly diagnosed COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common, preventable and treatable disorder characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation that is due to airway and/or alveolar abnormalities usually caused by significant exposure to noxious particles or gases. The main objective of COPD management is to prevent the deterioration of lung function, alleviate symptoms, and prevent exacerbations. The pharmacological armamentarium of COPD include short-acting bronchodilators, long-acting bronchodilators such as muscarinic antagonists (LAMA) and long acting beta-2-agonists (LABA), and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS).

Given the variety of available pharmacologic treatments for COPD, the choice of appropriate dual therapy is crucial to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms and possible complications. Symptomatic patients with a history of frequent exacerbations (moderate-to severe COPD) have been suggested as the appropriate candidates for regular ICS treatment in addition to long acting bronchodilators. Also the use of short-acting beta-2-agonists on a regular basis for at least seven days in stable COPD is associated with improvements in post bronchodilator lung function and a decrease in breathlessness.

The aim of the present study is to have Indian data about the effect of ICS/LABA on lung function parameters and need for concomitant rescue medicine i.e. short acting bronchodilators suggestive of acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD).

We invite you to participate in this study and share your experience in newly diagnosed cases of COPD in your routine practice. If you agree to participate, we would like to request you to provide us relevant information in data collection Form (DCF).

We trust you and we are partners in promoting safe and effective drug therapy. In that spirit, we hope you will consent to participate in this study. If you do, please sign and return the enclosed reply along with your visiting card for accuracy of records.

Your Truly,
Sun Pharma Laboratories Limited