Cardiovascular safety of inhaled long-acting bronchodilators in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Multidisciplinary Management of Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Cardiovascular Disease

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) frequently coexist, increasing the prevalence of both entities and impacting on symptoms and prognosis. CVD should be suspected in patients with COPD who have high/very high risk scores on validated scales, frequent exacerbations, precordial pain, disproportionate dyspnea, or palpitations. They should be referred to cardiology if they have palpitations of unknown cause or angina pain. COPD should be suspected in patients with CVD if they have recurrent bronchitis, cough and expectoration, or disproportionate dyspnea. They should be referred to a pulmonologist if they have rhonchi or wheezing, air trapping, emphysema, or signs of chronic bronchitis. Treatment of COPD in cardiovascular patients should include long-acting muscarinic receptor antagonists (LAMA) or long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) in low-risk or high-risk non-exacerbators, and LAMA/LABA/inhaled corticosteroids in exacerbators who are not controlled with bronchodilators. Cardioselective beta-blockers should be favored in patients with CVD, the long-term need for amiodarone should be assessed, and antiplatelet drugs should be maintained if indicated.

Cardiovascular Events with the Use of Long-Acting Muscarinic Receptor Antagonists: An Analysis of the FAERS Database 2020-2023

PURPOSE

This study aimed to examine reports of cardiovascular adverse events (CV AEs) observed in the real-world during treatment with aclidinium, tiotropium, glycopyrronium, and umeclidinium alone or in combination with a LABA and, in the context of triple therapy, with the addition of an ICS, and submitted to the food and drug administration adverse event reporting system (FAERS).

METHODS

A retrospective disproportionality analysis was conducted utilizing CV AE reports submitted to the FAERS from January 2020 to 30 September 2023. Disproportionality was measured by calculating the reporting odds ratio.

RESULTS

Compared with ipratropium, tiotropium was associated with fewer reports of CV AEs. Compared with tiotropium, other LAMAs were more likely to be associated with reports of CV AEs. Combinations of glycopyrronium with indacaterol or formoterol and umeclidinium with vilanterol significantly reduced reports of CV AEs compared with the respective LAMA. The addition of an ICS to these combinations further reduced the risk of CV AE reports.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that inhaled LAMAs are not free from cardiac AE risks. This risk may be more evident when the newer LAMAs are used, but it is generally significantly reduced when COPD patients are treated with dual bronchodilators or triple therapy. However, these results do not prove that LAMAs cause CV AEs, as FAERS data alone are not indicative of a drug's safety profile. Given the frequency with which COPD and cardiovascular disease co-exist, a large study in the general population could shed light on this very important issue.

A Cautionary Note on Using Propensity Score Calibration to Control for Unmeasured Confounding Bias When the Surrogacy Assumption Is Absent

Conventional propensity score methods encounter challenges when unmeasured confounding is present, as it becomes impossible to accurately estimate the gold-standard propensity score when data on certain confounders are unavailable. Propensity score calibration (PSC) addresses this issue by constructing a surrogate for the gold-standard propensity score under the surrogacy assumption. This assumption posits that the error-prone propensity score, based on observed confounders, is independent of the outcome when conditioned on the gold-standard propensity score and the exposure. However, this assumption implies that confounders cannot directly impact the outcome and that their effects on the outcome are solely mediated through the propensity score. This raises concerns regarding the applicability of PSC in practical settings where confounders can directly affect the outcome. While PSC aims to target a conditional treatment effect by conditioning on a subject's unobservable propensity score, the causal interest in the latter case lies in a conditional treatment effect conditioned on a subject's baseline characteristics. Our analysis reveals that PSC is generally biased unless the effects of confounders on the outcome and treatment are proportional to each other. Furthermore, we identify 2 sources of bias: 1) the noncollapsibility of effect measures, such as the odds ratio or hazard ratio and 2) residual confounding, as the calibrated propensity score may not possess the properties of a valid propensity score.

Cardiovascular Events According to Inhaler Therapy and Comorbidities in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Background

COPD coexists with many concurrent comorbidities. Cardiovascular complications are deemed to be major causes of death in COPD. Although inhaler therapy is the main therapeutic intervention in COPD, cardiovascular events accompanying inhaler therapy require further investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate new development of cardiovascular events according to each inhaler therapy and comorbidities.

Methods

This study analyzed COPD patients (age ≥ 40 years, N = 199,772) from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) database in Korea. The development of cardiovascular events, from the index date to December 31, 2020, was investigated. The cohort was eventually divided into three arms: the LAMA/LABA group (N = 28,322), the ICS/LABA group (N = 11,812), and the triple group (LAMA/ICS/LABA therapy, N = 6174).

Results

Multivariable Cox analyses demonstrated that, compared to ICS/LABA therapy, triple therapy was independently associated with the development of ischemic heart disease (HR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.04-1.43), heart failure (HR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.14-1.84), arrhythmia (HR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.41-2.09), and atrial fibrillation/flutter (HR: 2.31, 95% CI: 1.64-3.25), whereas the LAMA/LABA therapy did not show a significant association. Furthermore, emergency room visit during covariate assessment window was independently associated with the development of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, arrhythmia, and atrial fibrillation/flutter (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that cardiovascular risk should be considered in COPD patients receiving triple therapy, despite the confounding bias resulting from disparities in each group.

Association of Abnormal Lung Function and Its Subtypes With Arterial Stiffness: A Longitudinal Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Prior studies have reported the cross-sectional relationship between lung function and arterial stiffness, while the longitudinal association remains unclear to date. This study aimed to investigate whether abnormal lung function and its subtypes at baseline are associated with increased arterial stiffness using a cohort.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was a secondary analysis extracting 2461 participants from Beijing Health Management Cohort as baseline and annually followed for development of arterial stiffness. Abnormal lung function was defined by forced expiratory volume in 1s <80% of the predicted value, forced vital capacity of the predicted value, or forced expiratory volume in 1s/forced vital capacity ratio <70%. Increased arterial stiffness was determined by brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity ≥1400 cm/s. Cox proportional hazards model was used to calculate the hazard ratio and population attributable fraction. The mean age was 42.8±8.1 years, and 444 (18.0%) cases developed increased arterial stiffness during a median follow-up of 3.0 years. The adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) of arterial stiffness was 1.47 (95% CI, 1.10-1.96) for abnormal lung function, with a population attributable fraction of 3.9% (95% CI, 0.8-7.1). Of subtypes, only obstructive ventilatory dysfunction was significantly associated with arterial stiffness (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.06 [95% CI, 1.27-3.36]), not restricted ventilatory dysfunction (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.54-1.65]). Consistent results were observed on multiple sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicated a longitudinal association of abnormal lung function with increased arterial stiffness using a large cohort, especially for the obstructive ventilatory dysfunction.

The Acute Effects of the Use of Salbutamol and Ipratropium on the Heart Rates of Patients With Obstructive Airway Disease

Background The cornerstone of pharmaceutical therapy for obstructive airway illnesses involves inhalation of bronchodilators, such as ipratropium bromide (IP) and salbutamol (SB). The heart rate regulation may be changed by β-2 agonists and anticholinergic medications. Investigating the impact of inhaled SB and IP on the heart rate was the goal of this study. Methods A total of 304 patients were enrolled in this investigation. Baseline demographic characteristics, medical history, and adverse events were documented. Their heart rates were monitored before and after bronchodilator administration. SB and IP were selected based on historical usage. Blood pressure readings were also taken before and after each session. Results There was a significant increase in heart rates after SB from a mean of 106.69 to 117.20. Similarly, the heart rate of the patients in the IP group increased to a mean of 106.95 from 93.44, with a statistically significant p-value. Moreover, tremors were the most common adverse effect, accounting for 85.3% of the patients in the IP group and 75% in the SB group. In contrast, palpitation was more common in the SB group 25% vs. 14.7% with a significant p-value. Conclusion Frequently administered dosages of SB and IP caused a considerable increase in heart rates, as well as tremors and palpitation.

Ensifentrine, a Novel Phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 Inhibitor for the Treatment of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-controlled, Multicenter Phase III Trials (the ENHANCE Trials)

Rationale: Ensifentrine is a novel, selective, dual phosphodiesterase (PDE)3 and PDE4 inhibitor with bronchodilator and antiinflammatory effects. Replicate phase III trials of nebulized ensifentrine were conducted (ENHANCE-1 and ENHANCE-2) to assess these effects in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of ensifentrine compared with placebo for lung function, symptoms, quality of life, and exacerbations in patients with COPD. Methods: These phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trials were conducted between September 2020 and December 2022 at 250 research centers and pulmonology practices in 17 countries. Patients aged 40-80 years with moderate to severe symptomatic COPD were enrolled. Measurements and Main Results: Totals of 760 (ENHANCE-1) and 789 (ENHANCE-2) patients were randomized and treated, with 69% and 55% receiving concomitant long-acting muscarinic antagonists or long-acting β2-agonists, respectively. Post-bronchodilator FEV1 percentage predicted values were 52% and 51% of predicted normal. Ensifentrine treatment significantly improved average FEV1 area under the curve at 0-12 hours versus placebo (ENHANCE-1, 87 ml [95% confidence interval, 55, 119]; ENHANCE-2, 94 ml [65, 124]; both P < 0.001). Ensifentrine treatment significantly improved symptoms (Evaluating Respiratory Symptoms) and quality of life (St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire) versus placebo at Week 24 in ENHANCE-1 but not in ENHANCE-2. Ensifentrine treatment reduced the rate of moderate or severe exacerbations versus placebo over 24 weeks (ENHANCE-1, rate ratio, 0.64 [0.40, 1.00]; P = 0.050; ENHANCE-2, rate ratio, 0.57 [0.38, 0.87]; P = 0.009) and increased time to first exacerbation (ENHANCE-1, hazard ratio, 0.62 [0.39, 0.97]; P = 0.038; ENHANCE-2, hazard ratio, 0.58 [0.38, 0.87]; P = 0.009). Adverse event rates were similar to those for placebo. Conclusions: Ensifentrine significantly improved lung function in both trials, with results supporting exacerbation rate and risk reduction in a broad COPD population and in addition to other classes of maintenance therapies. Clinical trial registered with www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov and EudraCT (ENHANCE-1, www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov identifier NCT04535986, EudraCT identifier 2020-002086-34; ENHANCE-2, www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov identifier NCT04542057, EudraCT identifier 2020-002069-32).

Quantifying COPD as a risk factor for cardiac disease in a primary prevention cohort

BACKGROUND

Despite COPD being a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and knowing that risk stratification for CVD primary prevention is important, little is known about the real-world risk of CVD among people with COPD with no history of CVD. This knowledge would inform CVD management for people with COPD. The current study aimed to examine the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (including acute myocardial infarction, stroke or cardiovascular death) in a large, complete real-world population with COPD without previous CVD.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective population cohort study using health administrative, medication, laboratory, electronic medical record and other data from Ontario, Canada. People without a history of CVD with and without physician-diagnosed COPD were followed between 2008 and 2016, and cardiac risk factors and comorbidities compared. Sequential cause-specific hazard models adjusting for these factors determined the risk of MACE in people with COPD.

RESULTS

Among ∼5.8 million individuals in Ontario aged ≥40 years without CVD, 152 125 had COPD. After adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities and other variables, the rate of MACE was 25% higher in persons with COPD compared with those without COPD (hazard ratio 1.25, 95% CI 1.23-1.27).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large real-world population without CVD, people with physician-diagnosed COPD were 25% more likely to have a major CVD event, after adjustment for CVD risk and other factors. This rate is comparable to the rate in people with diabetes and calls for more aggressive CVD primary prevention in the COPD population.

Pharmacotherapies in Older Adults with COPD: Challenges and Opportunities

Older adults have a higher prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which will likely increase substantially in the coming decades owing to aging populations and increased long-term exposure to risk factors for this disease. COPD in older adults is characterized by low-grade chronic systemic inflammation, known as inflamm-aging. It contributes substantially to age-associated pulmonary changes that are clinically expressed by reduced lung function, poor health status, and limitations in activities of daily living. In addition, inflamm-aging has been associated with the onset of many comorbidities commonly encountered in COPD. Furthermore, physiologic changes that are often seen with aging can influence the optimal treatment of older patients with COPD. Therefore, variables such as pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, polypharmacy, comorbidities, adverse drug responses, drug interactions, method of administration, and social and economic issues that impact nutrition and adherence to therapy must be carefully evaluated when prescribing medication to these patients because each of them alone or together may affect the outcome of treatment. Current COPD medications focus mainly on alleviating COPD-related symptoms, so alternative treatment approaches that target the disease progression are being investigated. Considering the importance of inflamm-aging, new anti-inflammatory molecules are being evaluated, focusing on inhibiting the recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells, blocking mediators of inflammation thought to be important in the recruitment or activation of these inflammatory cells or released by these cells. Potential therapies that may slow the aging processes by acting on cellular senescence, blocking the processes that cause it (senostatics), eliminating senescent cells (senolytics), or targeting the ongoing oxidative stress seen with aging need to be evaluated.

[Cardiopulmonary axis and cardiovascular mortality in patients with COPD]

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of mortality in our environment and was usually considered to be confined to the lung territory. The latest studies suggest that it is a systemic disease whose most probable etiopathogenesis is a state of low-intensity chronic inflammation that worsens during exacerbations. And recent scientific evidence has highlighted that cardiovascular diseases are one of the main causes of hospitalization and mortality in these patients. This relationship must be understood considering that both systems, the pulmonary and the cardiovascular, are closely related constituting the cardiopulmonary axis. Therefore, the therapeutic approach to COPD should not only include the treatment of respiratory complications, but also the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, which are very common in these patients. In this sense, in the last years, studies have been carried out that analyze the effect of the different types of inhaled therapy on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in particular.

An Open-Label, Multicentre, Observational, Post-Marketing Study to Monitor the Safety and Effectiveness of Umeclidinium/Vilanterol in Korean Patients

BACKGROUND

Umeclidinium/vilanterol (UMEC/VI; ANORO ELLIPTA, GSK) is a commonly used dual bronchodilator. This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of UMEC/VI in Korean patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) over a 6-year period.

METHODS

This was an open-label, multicentre, observational, post-marketing surveillance study. A total of 3,375 patients were enrolled consecutively in 52 hospitals, by 53 physicians, between July 2014 and July 2020. Patients who were administered UMEC/VI (fixed-dose 62.5 μg/25 μg) at least once and were monitored for safety and effectiveness were included in the analysis. Incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs) reported after administrating at least one dose of UMEC/VI were monitored, including unexpected adverse events (UAEs) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Effectiveness of UMEC/VI after 24 weeks of administration was also assessed using physician's evaluation (effective, ineffective/no change, worsening, indeterminable) and lung function improvement.

RESULTS

Of 3,375 patients, 3,086 were included in the safety assessment group (mean age±standard deviation: 69.76±8.80 years; 85.9% male [n=2,652]; 73.1% aged ≥65 years [n=2,255]). The overall incidence of AEs was 28.8% (n=890), of which 2.2% (n=67) were ADRs. Serious AEs and UAEs were reported in 181 (5.9%) and 665 (21.6%) patients, respectively, and two patients (&lt;0.1%) reported unexpected severe ADR. Of the 903/3,086 patients analysed for effectiveness, most (82.8%, n=748) showed overall disease improvement after UMEC/VI treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study confirmed UMEC/VI administered to Korean patients according to the prescribing information was well-tolerated and can be considered an effective option for COPD treatment.

Impact of COPD and asthma on in-hospital mortality and management of patients with heart failure in England and Wales: an observational analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between having concomitant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, and in-patient mortality and post-discharge management among patients hospitalised for acute heart failure (HF).

SETTING

Data were obtained from patients enrolled in the National Heart Failure Audit.

PARTICIPANTS

217 329 patients hospitalised for HF in England-Wales between March 2012 and 2018.

OUTCOMES

In-hospital mortality, referrals to cardiology follow-up and prescriptions for HF medications were compared between patients with comorbid COPD (COPD-HF) or asthma (asthma-HF) versus HF-alone using mixed-effects logistic regression.

RESULTS

Patients with COPD-HF were more likely to die during hospitalisation, and those with asthma-HF had a reduced likelihood of death, compared with patients who had HF-alone ((adjusted)OR_adj, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.06 to 1.14 and OR_adj, 95% CI: 0.84, 0.79 to 0.88). In patients who survived to discharge, referral to HF follow-up services differed between groups: patients with COPD-HF had reduced odds of cardiology follow-up (OR_adj, 95% CI 0.79, 0.77 to 0.81), while cardiology referral odds for asthma-HF were similar to HF-alone. Overall, proportions of HF medication prescriptions at discharge were low for both COPD-HF and asthma-HF groups, particularly prescriptions for beta-blockers.

CONCLUSIONS

In this nationwide analysis, we showed that COPD and asthma significantly impact the clinical course in patients hospitalised for HF. COPD is associated with higher in-patient mortality and lower cardiology referral odds, while COPD and asthma are both associated with lower use of prognostic HF therapies on discharge. These data highlight therapeutic gaps and a need for better integration of cardiopulmonary services to improve healthcare provision for patients with HF and coexisting respiratory disease.

Use of Prescription Medications With Cardiovascular Adverse Effects Among Older Adults in the United States

Background

Many commonly used prescription medications have cardiovascular adverse effects, yet the cumulative risk of cardiovascular events associated with the concurrent use of these medications is unknown. We examined the association between the concurrent use of prescription medications with known risk of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) (“MACE medications”) and the risk of such events among older adults.

Methods

A multi‐center, population‐based study from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study of a cohort of 3669 community‐dwelling adults aged 61–86 years with no history of cardiovascular disease who reported the use of at least one medication between September 2006 and August 2013 were followed up until August 2015. Exposure defined as time‐varying and time‐fixed use of 1, 2 or ≥3 MACE medications with non‐MACE medications serving as negative control. Primary outcome was incident MACE defined as coronary artery revascularization, myocardial infarction, fatal coronary heart disease, stroke, cardiac arrest, or death.

Results

In fully adjusted models, there was an increased risk of MACE associated with use of 1, 2, or ≥3 MACE medications (1 MACE: hazards ratio [HR], 1.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–1.57); 2 MACE: HR 1.89, CI 1.42–2.53; ≥3 MACE: HR 2.22, CI 1.61–3.07) compared to use of non‐MACE medications. These associations persisted in propensity score‐matched analyses and among new users of MACE medications, never users of cardiovascular medications and subgroups of participants with increased risk of MACE. There was no association between the number of non‐MACE medications used and MACE.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this community‐based cohort of older adults with no prior cardiovascular disease, the use of MACE medications was independently and consistently associated with an increased risk of such events in a dose–response fashion.

Association between Inhaled β2-agonists Initiation and Risk of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events: A Population-based Nested Case-Control Study

Purpose

Despite ample evidence underpinning the efficacy of β₂-agonists in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the occurrence of β₁- and β₂-adrenoceptors in the heart suggests that β₂-agonists may have deleterious cardiac effects. We investigated the association between new users of long-or short-acting β₂-agonists (LABA or SABA) or ICS (inhaled corticosteroids)/LABA and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Methods

A nested case–control analysis was conducted using the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink of patients with asthma, COPD or asthma–COPD overlap with initial treatment of LABA, SABA, ICS/LABA, ICS, long-or short-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA or SAMA) between 01 January 1998 and 31 July 2018. The primary outcome was MACE, defined as the first occurrence of stroke, heart failure, myocardial infarction, arrhythmia, or cardiovascular death. Each case was matched with up to 10 controls on age, sex, date of cohort-entry, and duration of follow-up. The risk of MACE associated with β₂-agonists was estimated using conditional logistic regression after controlling for potential confounders.

Results

The cohort included 180,567 new users of β₂-agonists, ICS, SAMA, or LAMA. Among asthmatics, β₂-agonists were not associated with the risk of MACE (SABA vs ICS: HR 1.29 [0.96–1.73]; ICS/LABA vs ICS, HR 0.75 [0.33–1.73]). In contrast, among COPD patients, LABA (HR, 2.38 [1.04–5.47]), SABA (HR, 2.02 [1.13–3.59]) and ICS/LABA (HR, 2.08 [1.04–4.16]) users had an increased risk of MACE compared with SAMA users. Among patients with asthma–COPD overlap, SABA (HR, 2.57 [1.26–5.24]) was associated with an increased risk of MACE compared with ICS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, initiation of LABA, SABA, or ICS/LABA in COPD or SABA in asthma–COPD overlap is associated with increased risk of MACE. No associations were observed among patients with asthma.

Pharmacophore Modelling and Virtual Screening Studies for the Discovery of Natural Product-Based PDE 3/4 Dual Inhibitors for COPD

Background:

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a chronic and progressive lung disease with a steady increase in prevalence over the recent years. Current treatment options of COPD are aimed at symptomatic relief without the ability to cure COPD, and certain corticosteroid treatments cause patients to be susceptible to infections. Newer studies have hinted that PDE3/4 dual inhibitors may produce a higher efficacy and better safety profile compared to current alternatives. These novel inhibitors may potentially improve the control of COPD exacerbation without increasing the risk of infections. Thus, our study aims to identify and refine natural compounds with PDE3/4 dual inhibitory activities through molecular modelling techniques.

Method:

A two-sided approach through ligand-based and structure-based pharmacophore modelling was employed, followed by virtual screening and molecular docking to identify lead compounds with PDE3/4 dual inhibition activity.

Results:

Pharmacophore based screening of Universal Natural Products Database (UNPD) resulted in identification of one compound for each pharmacophore model, namely UNPD1558 and UNPD139455, with high binding affinities towards both PDE3B and PDE4B. The two compounds were subsequently docked with PDE3B and PDE4B to study their interactions with the active site residues. Structural modifications of the compounds were proposed based on the docking results, to optimise their binding affinity and physicochemical properties.

Conclusion:

Compound 25a4 and compound 28, which were designed based on the structures of UNPD1558 and UNPD139455, respectively, showed improved binding affinity for both PDE3B and PDE4B. These lead compounds showed promising results as drug candidates and their PDE3/4 dual inhibitory properties should be further investigated through in vivo and in vivo studies.

The effects of medications for treating COPD and allied conditions on stroke: a population-based cohort study

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at higher risk of stroke. This study aimed to investigate the clinical factors of stroke risk in COPD and allied conditions patients and associations between medications for treating COPD and allied conditions. The population-based study cohort comprised 24,173 patients diagnosed with COPD and allied conditions between 2000 and 2013, and 24,170 selected matched patients without COPD comprised the comparison cohort from a nationwide database. Cox-proportional hazard regression was performed to determine the impact of medical therapies, comorbidities, and other clinical factors on stroke risk. Of the 48,343 included patients, 1394 (2.9%) experienced stroke during follow-up, with a significant difference between COPD and allied conditions cohort (1003/4.2%) and comparison cohort (391/1.6%) (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 2.72, p < 0.001). Cox-regression analysis revealed that COPD and allied conditions patients who were older (>65 years) (HR: 1.06); male (HR: 1.39); with hypertension (HR: 1.46), diabetes mellitus (HR: 1.33) and atrial fibrillation (HR: 1.63) had increased stroke risk. Mucolytics (HR: 0.44) and combination therapy with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting β2-agonists (LABA) (HR: 0.75) were associated with decreased stroke risk in COPD and allied conditions patients. Among COPD and allied conditions patients, major comorbidities increase risk of stroke. Therapy with mucolytic agents and combination ICS/LABA is associated with risk reduction.

COPD and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review of Association, Interrelationship, and Basic Principles for Integrated Management

The presence of comorbid cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can result in unfavorable outcomes, ranging from deterioration in quality of life to increases in all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Moreover, cardiovascular events are major cause of hospitalization in patients with COPD and contributing significantly to the economic burden of the disease. Despite the acknowledgment of the prognostic significance of CVD comorbidity in COPD patients, CVD remains underrecognized and undertreated in this patient population. In this article, we address the current knowledge about the estimated prevalence, pathophysiologic association, as well as important considerations in the diagnosis and management of CVD in COPD patients.

Efficacy and cardiovascular safety of LAMA in patients with COPD: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is at present the third leading cause of death in the world. Long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) is widely used as a bronchodilator in patients with COPD. However, there is controversy concerning their cardiovascular safety. This meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and cardiovascular safety of LAMAs versus placebo in patients with COPD. We searched Pub Med, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to identify studies that compared LAMA with placebo in patients with COPD. Twenty-one studies involving 24,987 participants were finally included in the analysis. There was no significant difference in the incidence of all adverse events (risk ratio (RR)=1.01, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.02, I²=15.2%) and cardiovascular events (RR=0.98, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.09, I²=4.9%) in patients treated with LAMAs versus placebo. LAMAs significantly improved trough forced expiratory volume in 1 s (weighted mean difference (WMD)=0.12, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.14, I²=86.6%), Transitional Dyspnea Index (WMD=0.75, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.94, I²=0%), and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (WMD=‒2.50, 95% CI ‒3.32 to ‒1.69, I²=39.8%). Moreover, LAMAs significantly reduced the incidence of exacerbation in patients with COPD (RR=0.85, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.91, I²=69.9%). LAMAs are safe therapy and play a pivotal role in improving lung function, dyspnea, and health status, and reducing the exacerbation in patients with COPD.

Emerging Biological Functions of IL-17A: A New Target in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes high rates of disability and mortality worldwide because of severe progressive and irreversible symptoms. During the period of COPD initiation and progression, the immune system triggers the activation of various immune cells, including Regulatory T cells (Tregs), dendritic cells (DCs) and Th17 cells, and also the release of many different cytokines and chemokines, such as IL-17A and TGF-β. In recent years, studies have focused on the role of IL-17A in chronic inflammation process, which was found to play a highly critical role in facilitating COPD. Specially, IL-17A and its downstream regulators are potential therapeutic targets for COPD. We mainly focused on the possibility of IL-17A signaling pathways that involved in the progression of COPD; for instance, how IL-17A promotes airway remodeling in COPD? How IL-17A facilitates neutrophil inflammation in COPD? How IL-17A induces the expression of TSLP to promote the progression of COPD? Whether the mature DCs and Tregs participate in this process and how they cooperate with IL-17A to accelerate the development of COPD? And above associated studies could benefit clinical application of therapeutic targets of the disease. Moreover, four novel efficient therapies targeting IL-17A and other molecules for COPD are also concluded, such as Bufei Yishen formula (BYF), a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and curcumin, a natural polyphenol extracted from the root of Curcuma longa.

Comorbidity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular disease

Comorbidity is one of the most significant problems of modern healthcare. Numerous studies have analyzed the possible pathogenetic mechanisms and relationships between a wide variety of diseases. Cardiovascular (CVD) and pulmonary diseases, in particular chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), have a number of the same risk factors and pathogenetic links, which aggravate each other's course. Moreover, CVD and COPD are among the most common diseases in the world. This review provides up-to-date information on the prevalence, risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this unfavorable combination of diseases. Some problems of diagnosis and treatment of patients with COPD and CVD are also discussed.

Indacaterol/glycopyrronium affects lung function and cardiovascular events in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Bronchodilators are the cornerstone for treating patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), although some studies have shown that dual bronchodilators may exacerbate incidence of adverse cardiovascular events. Here, we evaluated the cardiopulmonary safety of indacaterol/glycopyrronium (IND/GLY) using a meta-analysis.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, OVID, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases, using "indacaterol/glycopyrronium", "indacaterol/glycopyrrolate", "IND/GLY", "QVA149", "chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases", "COPD", "chronic obstructive airway disease", "chronic obstructive lung disease" as key words. Acute exacerbation of COPD and FEV₁ as indicators of pulmonary function and occurrence of hypertension, atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction and heart failure as indicators of cardiovascular safety.

RESULTS

A total of 23 articles, comprising 21,238 participants, were included in the analysis. FEV₁ values were significantly different compared to IND/GLY and single bronchodilator therapy (LABA or LAMA), with the MD 0.11 L (95%CI: 0.10-0.13, P<0.01). Hypertension was more frequent in the IND/GLY, than the single bronchodilator therapy group, although this difference was insignificant (IND/GLY vs LABA, RR=1.88, P = 0.09; IND/GLY vs LAMA, RR=1.42, P = 0.08; IND/GLY vs LABA+ICS, RR=1.85, P = 0.23). In addition, IND/GLY did not significantly increase the risk of myocardial infarction (IND/GLY vs LAMA or double therapy, total RR: 1.49, 95%CI: 0.72-3.08, P = 0.28), atrial fibrillation (IND/GLY vs LAMA, RR: 1.62, 95%CI: 0.64-4.10, P = 0.31) and heart failure (IND/GLY vs LAMA, RR: 0.40, 95%CI: 0.07-2.33, P = 0.31) in COPD patients.

CONCLUSIONS

IND/GLY significantly reduced incidence of acute COPD exacerbations, and slowed down the decline of FEV₁. Adequate safety measures are needed to control incidence of adverse cardiovascular events.

Effect of perioperative bronchodilator therapy on postoperative pulmonary function among lung cancer patients with COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an established risk factor for lung cancer, remains largely undiagnosed and untreated before lung cancer surgery. We evaluated the effect of perioperative bronchodilator therapy on lung function changes in COPD patients who underwent surgery for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). From a database including NSCLC patients undergoing lung resection, COPD patients were identified and divided into two groups based on the use of bronchodilator during the pre- and post-operative period. Changes in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and postoperative complications were compared between patients treated with and without bronchodilators. Among 268 COPD patients, 112 (41.8%) received perioperative bronchodilator, and 75% (84/112) were newly diagnosed with COPD before surgery. Declines in FEV1 after surgery were alleviated by perioperative bronchodilator even after adjustments for related confounding factors including surgical extent, surgical approach and preoperative FEV1 (adjusted mean difference in FEV1 decline [95% CI] between perioperative bronchodilator group and no perioperative bronchodilator group; - 161.1 mL [- 240.2, - 82.0], - 179.2 mL [- 252.1, - 106.3], - 128.8 mL [- 193.2, - 64.4] at 1, 4, and 12 months after surgery, respectively). Prevalence of postoperative complications was similar between two groups. Perioperative bronchodilator therapy was effective to preserve lung function, after surgery for NSCLC in COPD patients. An active diagnosis and treatment of COPD are required for surgical candidates of NSCLC.

Is the use of two versus one long-acting bronchodilator by patients with COPD associated with a higher risk of acute coronary syndrome in real-world clinical practice?

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular comorbidity is common among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and there is concern that long-acting bronchodilators (long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) and long-acting beta₂ agonists (LABAs)) may further increase the risk of acute coronary events. Information about the impact of treatment intensification on acute coronary syndrome (ACS) risk in real-world settings is limited. We undertook a nationwide nested case-control study to estimate the risk of ACS in users of both a LAMA and a LABA relative to users of a LAMA.

METHODS

We used routinely collected national health and pharmaceutical dispensing data to establish a cohort of patients aged >45 years who initiated long-acting bronchodilator therapy for COPD between 1 February 2006 and 30 December 2013. Fatal and non-fatal ACS events during follow-up were identified using hospital discharge and mortality records. For each case we used risk set sampling to randomly select up to 10 controls, matched by date of birth, sex, date of cohort entry (first LAMA and/or LABA dispensing), and COPD severity.

RESULTS

From the cohort (n=83 417), we identified 5399 ACS cases during 281 292 person-years of follow-up. Compared with current use of LAMA therapy, current use of LAMA and LABA dual therapy was associated with a higher risk of ACS (OR 1.28 (95% CI 1.13 to 1.44)). The OR in an analysis restricted to fatal cases was 1.46 (95% CI 1.12 to 1.91).

CONCLUSION

In real-world clinical practice, use of two versus one long-acting bronchodilator by people with COPD is associated with a higher risk of ACS.

Recent Advances in β2-Agonists for Treatment of Chronic Respiratory Diseases and Heart Failure

β₂-Adrenoceptor (β₂-AR) agonists are widely used as bronchodilators. The emerge of ultralong acting β₂-agonists is an important breakthrough in pulmonary medicine. In this review, we will provide mechanistic insights into the application of β₂-agonists in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and heart failure (HF). Recent studies in β-AR signal transduction have revealed opposing functions of the β₁-AR and the β₂-AR on cardiomyocyte survival. Thus, β₂-agonists and β-blockers in combination may represent a novel strategy for HF management. Allosteric modulation and biased agonism at the β₂-AR also provide a theoretical basis for developing drugs with novel mechanisms of action and pharmacological profiles. Overlap of COPD and HF presents a substantial clinical challenge but also a unique opportunity for evaluation of the cardiovascular safety of β₂-agonists. Further basic and clinical research along these lines can help us develop better drugs and innovative strategies for the management of these difficult-to-treat diseases.

Effectiveness of Spacer Devices on Preventing Undesirable Cardiovascular Effects of Inhaled Salbutamol

Background: Currently, there are no regulatory guidelines indicating spacer devices/valved holding chamber (VHC) should be used routinely during pulmonary function tests, and few studies evaluated if spacer devices reduce beta-agonist bronchodilators' side effects. Methods: A prospective study compared salbutamol's cardiovascular effects and bronchodilation response during spirometry tests with and without a spacer device/VHC. Heart rate (HR), the corrected QT interval (QTc), and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured 10 minutes after the first spirometry test, before the drug administration, and 20 minutes after inhalation in both groups. Spirometric parameters (forced expiratory volume in the first second [FEV1], forced vital capacity [FVC], and FEV1/FVC) were also measured for both groups. Results: HR and QTc increase were significantly higher in the pressurized meter dose inhalers alone group versus the VHC group [mean SD] [73.1 ± 10 bpm to 74.3 + 10 bpm, p = 0.021] and [median (25%-75% interquartile range)] [389 ms (381-404) to 398 ms (387-407), p = 0.045] vs. [mean SD] [75.4 ± 9 to 73.8 + 8 bpm, p = 0.4] and [median (25%-75% interquartile range)] [388 ms (347-408) to 385 ms (366-408), p = 0.35], respectively. FEV1 variation before and after salbutamol were similar between both groups. Discussion: Although VHC significantly reduces HR and QTc variation when using beta-agonist bronchodilators in healthy patients, no clinical repercussions of this variation were found in this study, since no event of tachycardia or pathological QTc was recorded. Conclusion: VHC has a diminished clinical impact for healthy patients when considering cardiovascular effects and spirometric parameters. Beta-agonist bronchodilators may be administrated despite the use of spacer devices in patients without known cardiovascular diseases. Its significance for other populations still needs to be determined.

Pharmacology and Therapeutics of Bronchodilators Revisited

Bronchodilators remain the cornerstone of the treatment of airway disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is therefore considerable interest in understanding how to optimize the use of our existing classes of bronchodilator and in identifying novel classes of bronchodilator drugs. However, new classes of bronchodilator have proved challenging to develop because many of these have no better efficacy than existing classes of bronchodilator and often have unacceptable safety profiles. Recent research has shown that optimization of bronchodilation occurs when both arms of the autonomic nervous system are affected through antagonism of muscarinic receptors to reduce the influence of parasympathetic innervation of the lung and through stimulation of β ₂-adrenoceptors (β ₂-ARs) on airway smooth muscle with β ₂-AR-selective agonists to mimic the sympathetic influence on the lung. This is currently achieved by use of fixed-dose combinations of inhaled long-acting β ₂-adrenoceptor agonists (LABAs) and long-acting muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists (LAMAs). Due to the distinct mechanisms of action of LAMAs and LABAs, the additive/synergistic effects of using these drug classes together has been extensively investigated. More recently, so-called "triple inhalers" containing fixed-dose combinations of both classes of bronchodilator (dual bronchodilation) and an inhaled corticosteroid in the same inhaler have been developed. Furthermore, a number of so-called "bifunctional drugs" having two different primary pharmacological actions in the same molecule are under development. This review discusses recent advancements in knowledge on bronchodilators and bifunctional drugs for the treatment of asthma and COPD. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Since our last review in 2012, there has been considerable research to identify novel classes of bronchodilator drugs, to further understand how to optimize the use of the existing classes of bronchodilator, and to better understand the role of bifunctional drugs in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Diffusing capacity in normal-for-age spirometry and spirometric impairments, using reference equations from the global lung function initiative

BACKGROUND

Reference equations from the Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) are now available for both spirometry and diffusion. However, respiratory phenotypes defined by GLI-based measures of diffusion have not yet been evaluated in GLI-based normal-for-age spirometry or spirometric impairments.

METHODS

We evaluated cross-sectional data from 2100 Caucasians, aged 40-85 years. GLI-based spirometric categories included normal-for-age and the impairments of restrictive-pattern and three-level severity of airflow-obstruction (mild, moderate, severe). GLI-based diffusion included diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (D_LCO) and measured components of alveolar volume (V_A) and transfer coefficient (K_CO): D_LCO = [V_A]x[K_CO]. Using multivariable regression models, adjusted odds ratios (adjORs) for D_LCO, V_A, and K_CO < lower limit of normal (LLN) were calculated for spirometric impairments, relative to normal-for-age spirometry.

RESULTS

Relative to normal-for-age spirometry, the restrictive-pattern increased the adjORs (95% confidence intervals) for D_LCO and V_A < LLN-4.61 (3.62, 5.85) and 15.53 (11.8, 20.4), respectively, but not for K_CO < LLN-1.02 (0.79, 1.33). Also relative to normal-for-age spirometry, airflow-obstruction from mild to severe increased the adjORs for D_LCO < LLN-from 1.22 (0.80, 1.86) to 6.63 (4.91, 8.95), for V_A < LLN-from 1.37 (0.85, 2.18) to 7.01 (5.20, 9.43), and for K_CO < LLN-from 2.04 (1.33, 3.14) to 3.03 (2.29, 3.99). Notably, in normal-for-age spirometry, 34.5%, 19.7%, and 25.3% of participants had D_LCO, V_A, or K_CO < LLN, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Abnormal diffusion is most prevalent in spirometric impairments but also occurs in normal-for-age spirometry. These results further inform the respiratory phenotypes of GLI-based spirometric categories and, in turn, the spirometric evaluation of respiratory disease.

Pulmonologists Adherence to the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease GOLD Guidelines: A Goal to Improve

Background and objectives: Data about pulmonologist adherence to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines showed a great variability and cannot be extrapolated. The present study investigates the current pharmacological prescribing practices in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) according to the 2017 GOLD guidelines, to determine the level of pulmonologist adherence and to identify possible factors that influence physician adherence. Materials and methods: This retrospective study took place between 1 February and 30 April 2018 in Pneumophtysiology Clinical Hospital Cluj-Napoca. We included 348 stable COPD outpatients classified according to the 2017 GOLD strategy in the ABCD risk groups. Pulmonologist adherence was defined as appropriate if the recommended pharmacological therapy was the first- or alternative-choice drug according to the guidelines, and inappropriate (overtreatment, undertreatment) if it was not in line with these recommendations. Results: The most prescribed treatment was the combination long-acting beta agonist (LABA) + long-acting antimuscarinic agent (LAMA) (34.77%), followed by LAMA + LABA + inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). Overall, pneumologist adherence was 79.02%. The most inappropriate therapies were in Group B (33.57%), followed by 33.33% in Group A. Compared to Groups C and D (analyzed together), Groups A and B had a 4.65 times higher chance (p = 0.0000001) of receiving an inappropriate therapy. Patients with cardiovascular comorbidities had a 1.89 times higher risk of receiving an inappropriate therapy (p = 0.021). ICS overprescription was the most common type of inappropriateness (17.81%). Groups C and D had a 3.12 times higher chance of being prescribed ICS compared to Groups A and B (p = 0.0000004). Conclusions: Pulmonologist adherence to the GOLD guidelines is not optimal and needs to be improved. Among the factors that influence the inappropriateness of COPD treatments, cardiovascular comorbidities and low-risk Groups A and B are important. ICS represent the most prescribed overtreatment. Further multicentric studies are needed to evaluate all factors that might influence the adherence rate.

Absence of Adverse Effects of Tiotropium/Olodaterol Compared with the Monocomponents on Long-Term Heart Rate and Blood Pressure in Patients with Moderate-to-Very-Severe COPD

Introduction

Long-acting β2-agonists (LABAs) and long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) are established maintenance bronchodilator treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with the potential to increase heart rate (HR) and impact blood pressure (BP). While previous studies indicate that HR and BP are not negatively influenced by tiotropium or olodaterol monotherapy, the effect of tiotropium/olodaterol has not been evaluated. We report a post hoc analysis of the effect of dual bronchodilation with tiotropium/olodaterol versus monocomponents on HR and BP in patients with moderate-to-very-severe COPD included in the large TONADO® study.

Methods

The TONADO® trials (1237.5 [NCT01431274] and 1237.6 [NCT01431287]) were two replicate, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, 52-week, Phase III trials that compared tiotropium/olodaterol (5/5 μg and 2.5/5 μg) with tiotropium (5 μg and 2.5 μg) and olodaterol (5 μg) in patients with moderate-to-very-severe COPD. Patients with cardiovascular comorbidities were included. Changes in HR and systolic/diastolic BP were measured before and after dosing with the study medication at each visit (baseline, Week 12, Week 24 and Week 52).

Results

Overall, 3,100 patients were included in this analysis. Over 52 weeks, small changes from baseline in mean HR (<2 beats per minute [bpm]) and small changes from pre- to post-dose (<1 bpm) were evident at different time points. There was a non-significant increase from baseline in mean diastolic and systolic BP (<2 mmHg) observed over 52 weeks of treatment. The short-term (1 hour pre- to 1 hour post-dose) mean changes in systolic and diastolic BP over 52 weeks in the tiotropium/olodaterol 5/5 µg group were comparable with those observed for the monocomponents at all time points.

Conclusion

There were no differences in HR or BP among patients on tiotropium/olodaterol when compared with monocomponents. This supports the already demonstrated cardiovascular safety profile of tiotropium/olodaterol as long-acting maintenance bronchodilator treatment for COPD, including patients with cardiovascular comorbidities.

Management of cardiovascular comorbidities in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is а highly prevalent, complex and heterogeneous clinical condition which is associated with significant concomitant diseases. COPD and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) often coexist due to the high prevalence of each of these pathological conditions separately as well as the common risk factors (particularly smoking), mechanisms of interaction and influence of systemic inflammation. In addition, decreased pulmonary function in COPD is closely associated with an increased risk of congestive CVDs. One of the most important pathophysiological markers of COPD—lung hyperinflation—plays a significant role in the appearance of functional limitations of the pumping function of the heart, creating unfavorable conditions by exerting a compression effect on the heart muscle. The latter was confirmed by significant correlation between the COPD severity according to GOLD classification and the basic dimensions of the heart chambers. Several decades ago, the term “microcardia” was commonly used and indicated a radiological sign of emphysema. Some studies demonstrated a close relationship between the chance of occurrence of CVD and the severity of pulmonary dysfunction. Such an association has been demonstrated for the whole spectrum of CVD—including cerebrovascular disease, congestive heart failure (CHF) and rhythm disturbances—and was detected in the early stages of the disease. A large proportion of patients with mild and moderate COPD die due to CVD, which is much more likely than deaths in the same group due to respiratory insufficiency. COPD patients have a higher rate of hospitalization and death, the cause of which are coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and CHF. Treatment of COPD today is mainly determined by national and international clinical guidelines, which should pay more attention to the problems of the treatment of COPD patients with comorbid conditions.

Correlation of Inhaled Long-Acting Bronchodilators With Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Stable COPD: A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

A majority of existing studies have focused on the efficacy of inhaled long-acting bronchodilators (ILABs), such as long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) and long-acting β2-agonists (LABAs), and LABAs combined with LAMAs in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The current meta-analysis aimed to investigate the correlation of ILABs with specific cardiovascular adverse events (CAEs). Five electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically retrieved. Finally, 16 randomized controlled trials were enrolled into the current meta-analysis. Typically, the efficacy of 3 major classes of drugs (LABAs, LAMAs, and LABAs combined with LAMAs), and 7 specific drugs (including formoterol, glycopyrrolate, indacaterol, olodaterol, Salmeterol, tiotropium, and vilanterol) for 4 CAEs, including myocardial infarction, cardiac failure (CF), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and stroke in stable COPD patients, was examined. All the pooled results were analyzed through the odds ratios (ORs) with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The direct meta-analysis results suggested that LABAs could increase the risk of CF in patients with stable COPD compared with placebo controls (OR 1.70, 95% CI, 1.00-2.90). In addition, network meta-analysis results indicated that LAMAs combined with LABAs would result in an increased risk of CF in patients with stable COPD (OR 2.31, 95% CI, 1.10-5.09). According to the ILABs specific drug analysis, formoterol may potentially have protective effects on IHD compared with placebo controls (OR 0.45, 95% CI, 0.18-1.00). In conclusion, among these 3 kinds of ILABs, including LAMAs, LABAs, and LABAs/LAMAs, for stable COPD patients, LAMAs and LABAs are associated with the least possibility to induce myocardial infarction and stroke, respectively. However, the application of LABAs will probably increase the risk of CF; they should be used with caution for stable COPD patients with CF. In addition, in specific-drug analysis, the use of formoterol can reduce the risk of treatment-related IHD. Nevertheless, more studies on different drug doses are needed in the future to further validate this conclusion.

A randomized, controlled, repeat-dose study of batefenterol/fluticasone furoate compared with placebo in the treatment of COPD

Background

Batefenterol (BAT) is a bi-functional molecule with both muscarinic antagonist and β₂-adrenoceptor agonist pharmacology. This Phase II, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study evaluated the safety and tolerability of BAT 300 μg with fluticasone furoate (FF) 100 μg administered via the ELLIPTA inhaler (BAT/FF 300/100).

Methods

Subjects with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were randomized 2:1 to receive BAT/FF 300/100 or placebo once daily for 6 weeks. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in 0–4-h weighted mean (WM) heart rate (HR, measured by electrocardiogram [ECG]) on Day 42. Other endpoints included WM and maximum 0–4-h corrected QT interval (ECG on Days 1, 28, and 42), HR measured by Holter monitoring (Day 42), and standard safety assessments. Study protocol was approved by an Investigational Review Board.

Results

Sixty-two patients were randomized and received ≥1 dose of study medication (BAT/FF 300/100 n = 42; placebo n = 20). Mean age was 62.5 years (standard deviation [SD] 8.17). Study completion rates were 83% (BAT/FF 300/100) and 100% (placebo). Screening mean (SD) post-bronchodilator percentage-predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s was 57.57 (11.42) in the BAT/FF 300/100 group and 55.68 (14.03) in the placebo group. BAT/FF 300/100 was non-inferior to placebo for the primary endpoint, treatment difference: − 2.2 beats per minute (bpm), 95% confidence interval [CI]: − 6.2, 1.7). There were no clinically relevant differences between treatment groups in WM or maximum 0–4-h corrected QT interval, or mean HR based on Holter monitoring on Day 42 (BAT/FF 300/100: 76.3 bpm [SD 11.38]; placebo: 84.8 bpm [SD 9.87]). Adverse events (AEs) occurred in 38% (BAT/FF 300/100) and 35% (placebo) of patients. AEs in ≥2 subjects with BAT/FF 300/100 were dysgeusia (10%), diarrhea (7%), nasopharyngitis (7%), and cough (5%). AEs leading to discontinuation occurred in two subjects who received BAT/FF 300/100: post-treatment severe pneumonia (serious AE) and non-serious AEs of moderate vomiting and severe gastroenteritis; both were not considered drug-related. No deaths occurred.

Conclusions

Six weeks of BAT/FF 300/100 treatment was non-inferior to placebo for change from baseline in HR, with no new clinically relevant general or cardiovascular safety signals.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02573870 (submitted October 12, 2015).

COMBORIDITY OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES: GENERAL FACTORS, PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Currently, the comorbidity (combination) of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is an relevant problem for health care. This is due to the high prevalence and continued growth of these pathologies. CVD and COPD have common risk factors and mechanisms underlying their development and progression: smoking, inflammation, sedentary lifestyle, aging, oxidative stress, air pollution, and hypoxia. In this review, we summarize current knowledge relating to the prevalence and frequency of cardiovascular diseases in people with COPD and the mechanisms that underlie their coexistence. The implications for clinical practice, in particular the main problems of diagnosis and treatment of COPD/CVD comorbidity, are also discussed.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Heart Failure: A Breathless Conspiracy

Heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are both common causes of breathlessness and often conspire to confound accurate diagnosis and optimal therapy. Risk factors (such as aging, smoking, and obesity) and clinical presentation (eg, cough and breathlessness on exertion) can be very similar, but the treatment and prognostic implications are very different. This review discusses the diagnostic challenges in individuals with exertional dyspnea. Also highlighted are the prevalence, clinical relevance, and therapeutic implications of a concurrent diagnosis of COPD and HF.

Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Lung Disease: Cardiac Considerations

The importance of appropriately recognizing and managing patients with cardiovascular and pulmonary comorbidities is underscored by the poor outcomes described in complex comorbid patients. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have an increased risk, up to one-third greater than the general population, of cardiovascular comorbidities including hypertension and diabetes [1].

Major comorbidities lead to the risk of adverse cardiovascular events in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients using inhaled long-acting bronchodilators: a case-control study

Background

While inhaled bronchodilators reduce symptoms and acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), their use is associated with increased cardiovascular events in some studies. This study investigates the risk of adverse events associated with the use of inhaled bronchodilators in COPD patients with multimorbidity.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted between January 2015 and December 2017, and patients with spirometry-confirmed diagnosis of COPD (N = 1565) using inhaled long-acting bronchodilators were enrolled. Medical records were reviewed and clinical data, including age, gender, smoking status, major comorbidities, lung function stage, history of exacerbations, bronchodilator regimens, and treatment duration were analyzed. Major adverse cardiovascular events occurring during long-acting bronchodilator use were recorded.

Results

The most common comorbidities were cardiovascular disease (CVD) (53.6%) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) (25.8%). We observed that CVD (odds ratio [OR], 5.77), CKD (OR, 2.02) and history of frequent exacerbations (OR, 2.37) were independent risk factors for cardiovascular events, regardless of the type of bronchodilators use. Moreover, COPD patients with both CKD and CVD had higher risk (6.32-fold) of adverse cardiovascular effects than those with neither comorbidity. Eighty-seven of 1565 (5.56%) COPD patients died during this study period. Of them, 21.8% (19/87) were cardiovascular-related and 73.6% (64/87) patients were respiratory-related mortality. Among COPD patients using long-acting bronchodilators, CKD was the only risk factor to predict cardiovascular events and cardiovascular-related mortality (OR, 4.87; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.75–13.55].

Conclusions

COPD patients had higher risk of cardiovascular events were associated with their CVD and/or CKD comorbidities and history of frequent exacerbations, rather than associated with their use of inhaled bronchodilators.

Comparisons of exacerbations and mortality among regular inhaled therapies for patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although exacerbation and mortality are the most important clinical outcomes of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the drug classes that are the most efficacious in reducing exacerbation and mortality among all possible inhaled drugs have not been determined.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We performed a systematic review (SR) and Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA). We searched Medline, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, the European Union Clinical Trials Register, and the official websites of pharmaceutical companies (from inception to July 9, 2019). The eligibility criteria were as follows: (1) parallel-design randomized controlled trials (RCTs); (2) adults with stable COPD; (3) comparisons among long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs), long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs), inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs), combined treatment (ICS/LAMA/LABA, LAMA/LABA, or ICS/LABA), or a placebo; and (4) study duration ≥ 12 weeks. This study was prospectively registered in International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42017069087). In total, 219 trials involving 228,710 patients were included. Compared with placebo, all drug classes significantly reduced the total exacerbations and moderate to severe exacerbations. ICS/LAMA/LABA was the most efficacious treatment for reducing the exacerbation risk (odds ratio [OR] = 0.57; 95% credible interval [CrI] 0.50-0.64; posterior probability of OR > 1 [P(OR > 1)] < 0.001). In addition, in contrast to the other drug classes, ICS/LAMA/LABA and ICS/LABA were associated with a significantly higher probability of reducing mortality than placebo (OR = 0.74, 95% CrI 0.59-0.93, P[OR > 1] = 0.004; and OR = 0.86, 95% CrI 0.76-0.98, P[OR > 1] = 0.015, respectively). The results minimally changed, even in various sensitivity and covariate-adjusted meta-regression analyses. ICS/LAMA/LABA tended to lower the risk of cardiovascular mortality but did not show significant results. ICS/LAMA/LABA increased the probability of pneumonia (OR for triple therapy = 1.56; 95% CrI 1.19-2.03; P[OR > 1] = 1.000). The main limitation is that there were few RCTs including only less symptomatic patients or patients at a low risk.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that triple therapy can potentially be the best option for stable COPD patients in terms of reducing exacerbation and all-cause mortality.

[Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cardiovascular comorbidity]

In recent years, a greater understanding of the heterogeneity and complexity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has come from the point of view of an integrated clinical assessment of severity, pathophysiology, and the relationship with other pathologies. A typical COPD patient suffers on average 4 or more concomitant diseases and every day about a third of patients take from 5 to 10 different drugs. The mechanisms of the interaction of COPD and cardiovascular disease (CVD) include the effects of systemic inflammation, hyperinflation (hyperinflation) of the lungs and bronchial obstruction. The risk of developing CVD in patients with COPD is on average 2-3 times higher than in people of a comparable age in the general population, even taking into account the risk of smoking. The prevalence of coronary heart disease, heart failure, and rhythm disturbances among COPD patients is significantly higher than in the general population. The article discusses in detail the safety of prescribing various groups of drugs for the treatment of CVD in patients with COPD. Achieving success in understanding and managing patients with COPD and CVD is possible using an integrated multidisciplinary approach.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Gaps in Patients With Heart Failure and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Heart failure (HF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) coincide in a significant number of patients. Recent population-based registries suggest that spirometry is largely underused in patients with HF to diagnose comorbid COPD and that patients with COPD frequently do not receive the recommended beta-blocker (BB) treatment. This state-of-the-art review summarizes: 1) current challenges in the implementation of recommended spirometry for COPD diagnosis in patients with HF; and 2) current underuse and underdosing of BBs in patients with HF and COPD despite guideline recommendations. Open issues in the therapeutic management of patients with HF and COPD are discussed in the third section, including the use of the nonselective BB carvedilol, target BB doses in patients with HF and COPD, BB and bronchodilator management during HF hospitalization with and without COPD exacerbation, and the use of BBs in patients with COPD with right HF or free from cardiovascular disease. The whole scenario described herein advocates for a bipartisan initiative to drive immediate attention to the translation of guideline recommendations into clinical practice for patients with HF with co-occurring COPD.

Cardiac Troponin I and Cardiovascular Risk in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Background

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Objectives

This study evaluated the association between high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I concentration and cardiovascular events in patients with COPD and heightened cardiovascular risk.

Methods

In a double-blind randomized controlled trial, 16,485 patients with COPD and cardiovascular disease or risk factors were randomized to once daily inhaled placebo, fluticasone furoate (100 μg), vilanterol (25 μg), or their combination. Plasma high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I concentrations were measured in a subgroup of 1,599 patients. Outcomes were on-treatment cardiovascular events and COPD exacerbations over a median of 18 months, and cardiovascular death over a median of 27 months.

Results

Baseline plasma cardiac troponin I concentrations were above the limit of detection (1.2 ng/l) in 1,542 (96%) patients. Concentrations were unaffected by inhaled therapies at 3 months (p > 0.05). Compared with the lowest quintile (cardiac troponin <2.3 ng/l), patients in the highest quintile (≥7.7 ng/l) were at greater risk of cardiovascular events (hazard ratio [HR] 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3 to 10.1; p = 0.012) and cardiovascular death (HR: 20.1; 95% CI: 2.4 to 165.2; p = 0.005) after adjustment for risk factors. By contrast, there were no differences in exacerbations between quintiles (HR: 1.1; 95% CI: 0.8 to 1.5; p = 0.548).

Conclusions

In patients with COPD and heightened cardiovascular risk, plasma cardiac troponin I concentrations are a specific and major indicator of future cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death. Inhaled therapies did not affect cardiac troponin I concentrations consistent with their neutral effect on mortality and cardiovascular outcomes. (Study to Evaluate the Effect of Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol on Survival in Subjects With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease [SUMMIT]; NCT01313676)

Chinese oral herbal paste for the treatment of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common chronic respiratory disease with high morbidity and mortality placing heavy social and economic burden. As a kind of complementary therapy for the treatment of stable COPD, Chinese oral herbal paste has been widely used and studied. The study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of herbal paste in the treatment of stable COPD, and to provide evidence for its clinical application.

METHODS

We will electronically search databases, including Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science, EMBASE, PubMed, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WANFANG Database, Chinese Scientific and Technological Periodical Database (VIP), and Chinese Biomedical Database (CBM), from respective inception to June 2019 to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Chinese oral herbal paste for the treatment of stable COPD. The websites of Chinese clinical trial registry and international clinical trial registry, the reference lists of the retrieved articles, conference proceedings, and gray literature will also be collected. The quality of life, symptom scores, and exacerbation frequency will be measured as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include scores of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome, clinical effective rates according to criteria in TCM, changes in lung function, 6-minute walking distance, and safety analysis. The Cochrane bias risk assessment and the GRADE method will be used to assess the quality of the original studies included. Merging analysis of data will be performed using Rev Man 5.3 software.

RESULTS

The systematic review will provide an evidence on the clinical efficacy and safety of Chinese oral herbal paste for the treatment of stable COPD, and will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

CONCLUSION

The study will confirm whether Chinese oral herbal paste is an effective and safe intervention for the prevention and treatment of stable COPD.

Karma of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors for Prevention and Management of Major Cardiovascular Events in the Context of Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

There is compelling epidemiological evidence that airway exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution particles, as well as bacterial and viral pathogens is strongly related to acute ischemic events. Over the years, there have been important animal and human studies that have provided experimental evidence to support a causal link. Studies show that patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) or risk factors for CVD are more likely to have major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) after an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and patients with more severe COPD have higher cardiovascular mortality and morbidity than those with less severe COPD. The risk of MACEs in acute exacerbation of COPD is determined by the complex interactions between genetics, behavioral, metabolic, infectious, and environmental risk factors. To date, there are no guidelines regarding the prevention, screening, and management of the modifiable risk factors for MACEs in the context of COPD or COPD exacerbations, and there is insufficient CVD risk control in those with COPD. A deeper insight of the modifiable risk factors shared by CVD, COPD, and acute exacerbations of COPD may improve the strategies for reduction of MACEs in patients with COPD through vaccination, tight control of traditional CV risk factors and modifying lifestyle. This review summarizes the most recent studies regarding the pathophysiology and epidemiology of modifiable risk factors shared by CVD, COPD, and COPD exacerbations that could influence overall morbidity and mortality due to MACEs in patients with acute exacerbations of COPD.

Increased risk of major adverse cardiac events following the onset of acute exacerbations of COPD

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Acute exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may trigger major adverse cardiac events (MACE). We aimed to determine whether the risk of having MACE was transiently increased following the onset of an acute COPD exacerbation.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide, register-based study from 1997 to 2014 comprising individuals with an acute COPD exacerbation followed by a MACE (acute myocardial infarction (MI), stroke or cardiovascular death). Using the case-crossover design, we estimated odds ratios (OR) for the association between acute exacerbations of COPD and MACE as well as for single outcomes (acute MI, stroke and cardiovascular death), different levels of severity of exacerbations and within patient subgroups.

RESULTS

We identified 118 807 cases with a MACE preceded by an exacerbation. Overall, the risk of MACE increased almost fourfold following the onset of an acute exacerbation compared to periods without exacerbations in the same individuals (OR: 3.70; 95% CI: 3.60-3.80). The associations were consistent for single outcomes (acute MI, OR: 3.57; cardiovascular death, OR: 4.33; and stroke, OR: 2.78) and particularly strong associations were demonstrated for severe exacerbations (OR: 5.92) and the oldest individuals (OR: 4.18).

CONCLUSION

The risk of MACE increased substantially following the onset of an acute exacerbation. This highlights that prevention of cardiac events is an important goal in the management of COPD. Attention should be paid to detecting cardiovascular disease following acute COPD exacerbations.

Anticholinergics aggravate the imbalance of the autonomic nervous system in stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Background

Inhaled anticholinergics, recommended as first-line maintenance treatment for patients with moderate-to-severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), has been demonstrated to be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Nevertheless, why COPD patients using inhaled anticholinergics have this higher risk remains unknown. One of mechanisms may be an autonomic imbalance because anticholinergics yield reduced vagal nervous activity. To test our hypothesis, we studied heart rate recovery (HRR) after exercise, recognized as a marker of cardiac autonomic function, in COPD patients using and not using inhaled anticholinergics.

Methods

Sixty patients with COPD were involved in this study (mean FEV₁ = 1.57 ± 0.42 L), including 24 patients who had received tiotropium for more than 1 year and 36 patients not using tiotropium as a control group. A maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test was performed. HRR was defined as the difference between peak exercise and at 1-min recovery heart rate.

Results

HRR was significantly lower in patients using tiotropium than in the controls (16 ± 6 vs 22 ± 8 beats/min, respectively, p < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that tiotropium use and peak VCO₂ were independent predictors of HRR in these COPD patients.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that anticholinergics bronchodilators reduce HRR after exercise in COPD patients. This has the potential to aggravate autonomic nervous imbalance. Therefore, we recommend that COPD patients taking anticholinergic bronchodilators should be considered for monitoring of cardiac function and prescribers should be alert for cardiovascular events that may arise from autonomic nervous imbalance.

Effect of Aclidinium Bromide on Major Cardiovascular Events and Exacerbations in High-Risk Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: The ASCENT-COPD Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

There is concern that long-acting muscarinic antagonists increase cardiovascular morbidity or mortality in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the cardiovascular safety (noninferiority) and efficacy (superiority) of aclidinium bromide, 400 μg twice daily, in patients with COPD and cardiovascular disease or risk factors.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-design study conducted at 522 sites in North America. A total of 3630 patients with moderate to very severe COPD and either a history of cardiovascular disease or at least 2 atherothrombotic risk factors were randomized; follow-up occurred for up to 3 years until at least 122 major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) occurred. The first patient was enrolled on October 16, 2013 and the last on August 22, 2016. The final patient completed follow-up on September 21, 2017.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomized to receive aclidinium (n = 1812) or placebo (n = 1818) by dry-powder inhaler, twice daily for up to 3 years.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary safety end point was time to first MACE over up to 3 years (hazard ratio [HR] 1-sided 97.5% CI noninferiority margin = 1.8). The primary efficacy end point was the annual COPD exacerbation rate during the first year of treatment. Secondary outcomes included an expanded MACE definition (time to first MACE or serious cardiovascular event of interest) and annual rate of exacerbations requiring hospitalization.

RESULTS

Among 3589 patients analyzed (mean age, 67.2 years; 58.7% male), 2537 (70.7%) completed the study. Of these, 69 (3.9%) aclidinium and 76 (4.2%) placebo patients had a MACE (HR, 0.89; 1-sided 97.5% CI, 0-1.23); the expanded MACE definition included 168 (9.4%) aclidinium vs 160 (8.9%) placebo patients with events (HR, 1.03; 1-sided 97.5% CI, 0-1.28). Annual moderate to severe exacerbation rates (aclidinium, 0.44; placebo, 0.57; rate ratio, 0.78; 2-sided 95% CI, 0.68-0.89; P < .001) and rate of exacerbations requiring hospitalization (aclidinium, 0.07; placebo, 0.10; rate ratio, 0.65; 2-sided 95% CI, 0.48-0.89; P = .006) decreased significantly with aclidinium vs placebo. The most common adverse events were pneumonia (aclidinium, 109 events [6.1%]; placebo, 105 events [5.8%]), urinary tract infection (aclidinium, 93 events [5.2%]; placebo, 89 events [5.0%]), and upper respiratory tract infection (aclidinium, 86 events [4.8%]; placebo, 101 events [5.6%]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with COPD and increased cardiovascular risk, aclidinium was noninferior to placebo for risk of MACE over 3 years. The rate of moderate to severe COPD exacerbations was reduced over the first year.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01966107.