COPD Exacerbation
Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient Treatment

Note

Empiric antibiotic treatment may be considered in those with moderate to severe COPD exacerbation (at least 2 of the 3 symptoms below) or requiring hospitalization:

  • Increased dyspnea
  • Increased sputum volume/viscosity
  • Increased sputum purulence

Antibiotic Therapy (higher risk for poor outcomes)

  • FEV1 <50%
  • ≥2 COPD exacerbations in past 12 months
  • Hospitalized for exacerbation in past 12 months
  • Continuous supplemental oxygen
  • Comorbid conditions (CHF, ischemic heart disease)

OR

OR

Antibiotic Therapy (with risk factors for Pseudomonas infection)

  • Pseudomonas colonization
  • Isolation of Pseudomonas from sputum in past 12 months
  • FEV1 <30%
  • Bronchiectasis on CT
  • Broad-spectrum antibiotics use within past 3 months
  • Chronic systemic glucocorticoid use

OR

Duration

3-5 days for outpatients