Evidence of the efficacy of single-inhaler triple therapy in COPD patients inferred from RCTs has not been assessed in a real-world setting in Austria. In this non-interventional study (NIS) tolerability and effectiveness of extrafine beclometasone-dipropionate, formoterol-fumarate and glycopyrronium (Trimbow® 87/5/9 μg) was evaluated in COPD patients.

A prospective NIS was conducted over 52 weeks in 24 sites in Austria. Eligible COPD patients had an indication for treatment with single-inhaler BDP/FF/G. In this study tolerability, lung function, exacerbation rate, symptom scores and CAT scores were recorded.

265 patients with moderate to very severe airflow limitation (GOLD Grade 2–4: 96.2%) and persistent symptoms (GOLD B: 62.3%, GOLD D: 34%) according to the 2018 GOLD Report were included. After 52 weeks, a significant improvement was detected in lung function (FEV₁, FEV₁% predicted and FVC; p < 0.001) and symptoms (cough, sputum and shortness of breath; p < 0.001). A clinically relevant improvement in CAT score observed at 12 weeks persisted after 52 weeks in GOLD B and GOLD D patients (p < 0.001), paralleled by a significant reduction of moderate and severe exacerbations by 57.4% and 27.3%, respectively (p < 0.001). After 52 weeks, 93.7% of the patients continued the treatment. Of 21 adverse events reported 16 were non-serious, five were serious, none were deemed drug related.

The present results support the tolerability and effectiveness of extrafine BDP/FF/G in COPD patients in a real-world setting, showing an improvement in lung function, symptom control and a significant reduction in exacerbations.