Do systemic corticosteroids lessen symptoms in acute exacerbations of COPD?

Abstract

Systemic corticosteroids improve measures of dyspnea in patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (strength of recommendation [SOR]: A, meta-analysis of 2 small randomized controlled trials). The optimal dose of systemic corticosteroids to achieve these benefits is uncertain. An international consensus panel recommended 30 to 40 mg of oral prednisone daily for 10 to 14 days as a reasonable compromise of efficacy and safety (SOR: C, consensus expert opinion).