Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Series Part 4: Identifying, Managing, and Preventing Exacerbations.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains a leading cause of death in the United States, with exacerbations significantly contributing to overall morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. The purpose of this review is to discuss the recognition, treatment, and prevention of COPD exacerbations, with an emphasis on the role that pharmacists can have of ensuring appropriate treatment of acute exacerbations and preventing future exacerbations.