Efficacy of Salmeterol and Fluticasone propionate Combination in a Single Inhaler (discus) on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The efficacy of combination of salmeterol (50 μg) and fluticasone propionate (500 μg) in a single inhaler (discus) compared with placebo were evaluated in patients with moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In 12 weeks, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, paralled-group study in 62 adults (mean age 67 years, mean Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) 43% predicted normal), patients received inhalation twice daily of either salmeterol/fluticasone propionate or placebo. Daily bronchodilator use, exacerbations, quality of life using St. George Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), change of FEV1, Modified Medical Research Council for Dyspnoea (MMRC), Six Minute Walking Distance (6MWD), adverse event were recorded. Fifty seven patients completed the 3-month treatment period: 29 patients received combination salmeterol/fluticasone propionate and 28 patients received placebo. Combination of salmeterol/fluticasone propionate in a single inhaler (discus) reduced the mean number of severe exacerbations per patient within 12 weeks by 28.57% versus placebo. Forced Expiratory Volume in one second increased by 5.36% versus placebo and improved MMRC scale, 6MWD, SGRQ in therapy group versus placebo. These results suggest a role for combination of salmeterol/fluticasone propionate in the long-term management of moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.