Table 1 General questions to be addressed to optimise use of bronchodilators in COPD

  • Is it appropriate to treat all COPD patients with long-acting bronchodilators?

  • Is it better to start with a β2-agonist or with an anti-muscarinic agent?

  • Is it useful to use a bronchodilator with a rapid onset of action?

  • Is once- or twice-daily dosing preferable?

  • When can we add a second bronchodilator with a different mechanism of action?

  • When must we add an ICS?