Researchers have struggled to identify effective systemic pharmacologic therapies for COPD. Current COPD management consists of inhaled bronchodilators with few add on therapies for certain patient populations. Recently, researchers have focused on whether systemic medications commonly prescribed for non-respiratory indications may be effective in the treatment of COPD. In this session we discuss the scientific and clinical evidence for repurposing angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), metformin, and antiplatelet therapy as disease-modifying agents in COPD. We will also review the disconnect between murine models and human observational studies compared to clinical trial results for statins and beta-blockers. A panel discussion will follow.
• Describe findings from experimental and observational studies supporting the potential efficacy of angiotensin receptor blockers, metformin, and antiplatelet therapy in COPD
• Understand the reason for discrepancies between experimental/observational studies and clinical trial results in COPD
• Evaluate emerging research that investigates repurposing existing medications for the treatment of COPD
Mark Dransfield, MD
Enid Neptune, MD, ATSF
Vickram Tejwani, MD
Tianshi David Wu, MD, MHS
Francesca Polverino, MD, PhD
Ashraf Fawzy, MD, MPH
Fernando Martinez, MD, MS
Introduction
Murine Models to Study ARB in Emphysema
Current Evidence for ARBs and Angiotensin II Pathway in COPD
Epidemiologic Evidence for Metformin in COPD
Mechanisms of Metformin in COPD
Antiplatelet Therapy in COPD
Clinical Trial Considerations