[Chronical obstructive pulmonary disease: principles of treatment in elderly patients.]

Abstract

Due to the high prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among elderly patients, the relevance and importance of developing therapeutic concepts to improve the quality and longevity of life expectancy of this demographic group is increasing, taking into account the diverse factors that accompany the aging process. The aim of this review was to analyze the accumulated information from current literature sources on the use of various drugs for the treatment and control of COPD in elderly patients. Taking into account the characteristics of this cohort, various therapeutic approaches are discussed from the standpoint of efficacy and safety, and prospects for improving the delivery of inhaled drugs in order to increase their bioavailability, which is one of the most important factors in improving disease control, are assessed. More than 100 sources of relevant topics were processed; the most significant information in the light of the discussed problem is given in the article. The literature review focuses on the problem of drug management of COPD among elderly and senile people, which requires special attention and approach. The standards of COPD therapy applied to younger patients are not always optimal for geriatric patients. Awareness of physicians in this direction will allow personalizing medication prescriptions and improving the effectiveness in treatment of elderly patients with this pathology.