ABSTRACT
A randomized, open labeled comparative analysis for 2-week therapy of inhaled Tiotropium (T) (n=30) and Tiotropium plus Formoterol (TF) (n=30) once daily was carried in stable COPD patients. Objective parameters like lung functions (FEV1 and FVC), SBP, DBP, pulse and subjective parameters like improvement in respiratory symptoms & safety were assessed at baseline and after 2 weeks of treatment. Mean FEV1 was 1.0963±0.3826 & 1.1657±0.3701 as well as 1.1227±0.4129 & 1.2260±0.3830 before & after treatment with inhaled T & TF respectively. A statistically significant p<0.05 and p<0.001 improvement was only observed for FEV1 without significantly affecting other study parameters with two treatment modalities respectively when analyzed from respective base lines. However, on comparing the post drug improvement in objective & subjective parameters among T & TF treatment arms showed statistically insignificant p>0.05 variation. Both the regimens were well tolerated and no case warranted withdrawal of treatment. The present study suggests that in the treatment of COPD, inhaled long acting bronchodilators (T & TF) on comparison appear equally effective & safe.