Other
Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Role of Antibiotics?
Mirica Rapić
; Family Practice »Dr. Mirica Rapić«, Karlovac, Croatia
Abstract
In order to discuss a role of antibiotics, a 73-year old patient was presented, having an exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive
Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and to whom amoxicillin/clavulanate antibiotic was prescribed. Literature search
has indicated that antibiotics are recommended for COPD patients in two cases. Firstly, they are recommended in the patients
having an acute exacerbation with increased dyspnoea, sputum volume, and sputum purulence. Common options
usually include amoxicillin, amoxicillin/clavulanate, azithromycin, and doxycycline. Secondly, it is also recommended
for preventive purposes in patients with severe COPD having frequent exacerbations. But, still remain uncertainty on the
antibiotic used in outpatients, having mild or moderate COPD.
Keywords
COPD; exacerbation; antibiotics; preventive use of antibiotics
Hrčak ID:
147555
URI
Publication date:
29.12.2014.
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