Elevating COPD Management: Enhancing Treatment and Improving Patient Outcomes - Episode 2
Managing Moderate to Severe COPD: Integrating New Therapies Into Practice
Panelists discuss the evolving role of newly approved chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) therapies—such as ensifentrine, mepolizumab, and dupilumab—in addressing persistent symptoms and frequent exacerbations despite standard care, highlighting their targeted use based on patient profiles, the practical challenges of integration into clinical practice, and the importance of education, shared decision-making, and personalized care to optimize outcomes in moderate to severe COPD.
The recent introduction of new therapies for COPD, including ensifentrine, mepolizumab, and dupilumab, marks an important step forward in addressing unmet clinical needs. While existing inhaled therapies—such as dual bronchodilators and triple therapy—have been effective for many, a significant subset of patients continues to experience persistent symptoms and frequent exacerbations. These newer agents offer targeted options for patients who remain symptomatic despite standard care, helping to improve quality of life and reduce the risk of hospitalizations.
In clinical practice, these therapies are being gradually integrated based on patient profiles. Ensifentrine, a nebulized PDE4 inhibitor, is considered for patients with ongoing dyspnea despite triple inhaler therapy, while biologics like dupilumab and mepolizumab are being used in patients with a history of exacerbations and evidence of type 2 inflammation, particularly elevated blood eosinophil levels. Incorporating these treatments, however, presents challenges—including navigating insurance coverage, managing drug administration routes, and ensuring that patients understand the purpose and expectations of their new regimens.
Ultimately, effective integration of these therapies requires robust patient and provider education. With options like nebulized medications and injectable biologics now available, personalized care has become even more critical. Shared decision-making, caregiver involvement, and support from nurse educators or respiratory therapists can help ensure treatment success. As more real-world data emerge and clinical experience grows, these therapies hold the promise to significantly shift the management of moderate to severe COPD toward more tailored, outcomes-focused care.
