Prof. Peter Gibson presented “Macrolides in Asthma and COPD” in May, 2018.
Presentation Summary:
Prof. Gibson presents an overview of the effects of macrolide treatment, as an add-on therapy for asthma and COPD.
Macrolides (e.g. erythromycin and azithromycin) are antibiotic molecules, which also have anti-inflammatory effects. Macrolide treatment improves health outcomes in a range of obstructive airways diseases and is being assessed as a treatment option for asthma and COPD.
In asthma and COPD, the primary effect of long-term macrolide treatment is a reduction in exacerbations. Side effects of macrolide treatment should be considered prior to treatment and monitored/managed during treatment.
Prof. Gibson presents evidence that azithromycin treatment reduces exacerbations in adults with obstructive airways disease (asthma or COPD) with ongoing symptoms and exacerbations despite treatment with long-acting bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), if indicated. Patients should be screened prior to treatment, to confirm no QTc prolongation, cardiac arrhythmia or hearing loss. Treatment dose is 500mg, 3 times per week (or 250mg daily) for up to 12 months.
Key Points:
Prof. Peter Gibson (University of Newcastle, Hunter Medical Research Institute, John Hunter Hospital) is a respiratory physician and clinical scientist studying the disease mechanisms and treatment of severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cough and other airway disorders.
He has over 450 published articles and an extensive track record of research success and mentorship of clinical researchers. He is also the Past President of the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (2015-6).