Chest
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Formoterol, 24 microg bid, and serious asthma exacerbations: similar rates compared with formoterol, 12 microg bid, with and without extra doses taken on demand, and placebo.
The primary objective was to determine whether high-dose formoterol, 24 mug bid, was associated with more asthma exacerbations compared with lower formoterol doses in patients with stable persistent asthma. Serious asthma exacerbations (life threatening or requiring hospitalization) were the primary end point. Secondary end points included significant exacerbations requiring systemic corticosteroids, all exacerbations, and changes in FEV1. ⋯ Treatment with formoterol, 24 microg bid, was not associated with an increase in serious asthma exacerbations compared with the lower formoterol doses or placebo.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Cilomilast for COPD: results of a 6-month, placebo-controlled study of a potent, selective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4.
COPD is a relentless, progressive disease. This study evaluated the efficacy of cilomilast, a selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) 4 inhibitor, in the treatment of COPD. ⋯ Cilomilast is an orally active, potent, and selective inhibitor of PDE-4. Cilomilast maintained pulmonary function and improved health status, and reduced the rate of COPD exacerbations during 24 weeks of treatment. This study supports the use of cilomilast, a novel, selective PDE-4 inhibitor, in subjects with COPD.