Tiotropium and exercise training in COPD patients: effects on dyspnea and exercise tolerance.

Background: Exercise training improves exercise tolerance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Tiotropium 18 microg once daily induces sustained bronchodilation throughout the day and reduces hyperinflation, one of the pathophysiological factors contributing to exertional dyspnea in COPD patients.

Aim: To determine whether tiotropium enhances the effects of exercise training in patients with COPD.