[Treatment of acute exacerbation of the obstructive pulmonary disease with hospitalization at an intensive care unit]. / Lécba akutní exacerbace chronické obstrukcní plicní nemoci za hospitalizace a na luzku intenzivní péce.

Bronchodilatation is preferably achieved with beta-2-agonists (SABA), salbutamol. Therapy is intensified with anticholinergics (ipratropium bromide monohydrate). A combined preparation may also be used (ipratropium bromide monohydrate and fenoterole hydrobromide). Methylxantines (theophylline) are the second line option. Corticosteroids are administered orally (prednisolone) or intravenously (methylprednisolone or hydrocortisone). Patients who have problems expectorating are administered mucolytics (ambroxol hydrochloride or bromhexine hydrochloride). Some patients are treated with antibiotics. Oxygenotherapy is indicated in patients with hypoxemia. Insufficient treatment effect and progression of respiratory insufficiency warrants application of mechanical or non-invasive ventilation.