Effects of inhaled tiotropium plus transdermal tulobuterol versus tiotropium alone on impulse oscillation system (IOS)-assessed measures of peripheral airway resistance and reactance, lung function and quality of life in patients with COPD: a randomized crossover study.

Background: The addition of transdermal tulobuterol (Tulo) to inhaled tiotropium bromide (Tio) produced beneficial effects on spirometry-assessed parameters of respiratory function, disease-related symptoms and quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Aim: To compare the effects of Tio plus Tulo versus Tio alone on peripheral airway obstruction and quality of life in Japanese patients with COPD using impulse oscillation system (IOS)-assessed measures.

Patients And Methods: Patients aged 50-80 years with clinically stable COPD and a forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV(1)) that was 30-80% of the predicted value were randomized to receive Tio 18 μg once daily, or combination therapy with Tio 18 μg once daily plus Tulo 2 mg once daily for 4 weeks.