COPD has traditionally been managed through a combination of bronchodilators, inhaled corticosteroids, and pulmonary rehabilitation.1 However, as research uncovers the diverse inflammatory pathways contributing to disease progression, treatment strategies are evolving to incorporate targeted approaches that extend beyond symptom relief.2
Biologic therapies targeting IL-4 and IL-13 are leading this transformation.2 By addressing type 2 inflammation in eosinophilic COPD, these therapies reduce exacerbations and improve lung function in patients who may not fully respond to standard inhaled therapies. Their introduction into COPD management represents a major step toward individualized treatment, aligning with biomarker-driven strategies already employed in asthma care.3
Meanwhile, selective PDE4 inhibitors are being developed to refine the anti-inflammatory effects of earlier PDE4-targeting drugs while minimizing side effects.4 Additionally, regenerative medicine, including stem cell-based therapies, is gaining traction as researchers explore potential interventions for airway remodeling and lung tissue repair.5
As these therapies progress from clinical trials to clinical practice, pulmonologists will need to adapt treatment algorithms to incorporate new options while ensuring optimal patient selection. Enhancing patient education and support systems will also be crucial in improving adherence to these novel treatments, maximizing their therapeutic benefits. The growing emphasis on inflammation-targeting therapies signals a shift in COPD care, focusing not only on symptom control but also on modifying disease mechanisms to improve long-term outcomes.
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