Comparison of inhaled long-acting β-agonist and anticholinergic effectiveness in older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a largely preventable and manageable respiratory condition, affects an estimated 12% to 20% of adults. Long-acting inhaled β-agonists and anticholinergics have both been shown to improve COPD outcomes and are recommended for moderate to severe disease; however, little is known about their comparative effectiveness. OBJECTIVE: To compare survival in older patients with COPD who initially …