Management of Stable Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review for a Clinical Practice Guideline

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common and disabling condition in adults. Information about ther-apeutic effectiveness and adverse effects of common treatment options and how clinical and spirometric characteristics affect out-comes is not well known but is important for clinicians caring for patients with stable COPD. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of COPD management strategies. Data Sources: English-language publications in MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library through March 2007. Study Selection: Randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) and previous systematic reviews of inhaled therapies, pulmonary rehabilitation, disease management, and supplemental oxygen in adults with COPD. Data Extraction: Participant, study, and intervention characteristics