Question

A 64-year-old smoker presents with progressive breathlessness and a chronic productive cough. Spirometry shows an FEV1/FVC ratio of 0.65. Which of the following is recommended as the first pharmacological step in managing stable COPD according to NICE?

Accepted Answer

Short-acting beta-2 agonist (SABA) or short-acting antimuscarinic (SAMA) as needed

Answer

Long-acting beta-2 agonist (LABA) immediately

Answer

Inhaled corticosteroids as monotherapy

Answer

Oral theophylline

Answer

Long-term oxygen therapy

Practice question

A 64-year-old smoker presents with progressive breathlessness and a chronic productive cough. Spirometry shows an FEV1/FVC ratio of 0.65. Which of the following is recommended as the first pharmacological step in managing stable COPD according to NICE?