Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is most commonly caused by smoking. The patient finds it harder and harder to breathe. Pharmaceutical companies are developing new medicines to improve the symptoms. In the future, it is hoped that patients with this disease will lead a less restricted life.
Disease: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Last update: June 2008
Intro
FAQ: What does the future hold?
The pharmaceutical industry is developing new agents, and combinations of agents, that improve the symptoms of COPD. Companies are also researching a variety of products that interfere with the many different steps of the inflammatory process involved in COPD. This research may lead to a new way of treating the condition.