Can tiotropium add-on inhalation revolutionize therapy in elderly asthmatic patients? A treatable traits approach towards successful aging.

BACKGROUND: The population of elderly patients with asthma is increasing, resulting in serious health problems because of hospitalization and high mortality rate. Furthermore, several recent studies have shown that progressive airflow limitation may worsen cognitive dysfunction and contribute to poor asthma control. Maintaining good respiratory function is therefore important in the elderly in order to achieve a satisfactory quality of life.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 12-week, open-label, cross-over study was conducted in elderly patients with asthma to investigate the effect of 5 μg/day tiotropium bromide (TIO) add-on therapy administered using a soft mist inhaler (SMI), in addition to a dosage of 500/20 µg/day fluticasone propionate/formoterol fumarate (FP/FM) treatment and to compare the effects of treatment with those following the administration of 500/20 µg/day FP/FM alone. The trial design thus entailed a 4-week run-in period and two 4-week treatment periods.

RESULTS: A total of 21 patients aged over 65 years with stable bronchial asthma were recruited in the study. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second values after the treatment period with FP/FM and TIO add-on therapy were significantly higher than those after the run-in period (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION: TIO add-on therapy FP/FM treatment using an SMI in elderly patients with asthma improved lung function parameters demonstrating, the value of TIO add-on therapy as a treatable traits option for improving quality of life and achieving successful aging in this population.