Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with traditional management strategies centered on bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), and non-pharmacologic interventions.1 While these treatments have significantly improved symptom control and exacerbation rates, ongoing research is expanding therapeutic options to target underlying inflammation and disease progression.
A major area of interest is the role of type 2 inflammation in a subset of COPD patients, particularly those with elevated eosinophil counts.1 Biologic therapies targeting interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 pathways have previously demonstrated significant benefits in patients with eosinophilic asthma and eosinophilic esophagitis and are now being explored in COPD. Recent phase 3 clinical trials have shown that these agents can reduce exacerbation frequency and improve lung function in COPD patients with elevated blood eosinophils, offering a precision medicine approach beyond standard inhaled therapies.1
Other emerging strategies include selective phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors, which aim to reduce airway inflammation while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects observed with earlier agents.2 Additionally, researchers are exploring regenerative medicine approaches, including stem cell therapy and airway remodeling strategies, to address disease progression.3
These advancements highlight a shift toward targeted, personalized COPD management which may also improve patient compliance.4 As new treatments receive regulatory approval and are integrated into clinical practice, pulmonologists will play a key role in identifying optimal candidates and refining treatment algorithms to maximize patient outcomes.
Take our COPD quiz to see how your knowledge compares to your peers.
