The goal of this cluster randomized controlled trial is to determine the optimal treatment for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The study compares the effects and side effects of hydrocortisone and prednisolone in patients above 40 years old diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute exacerbation. The main question is whether there is a difference in readmission for COPD excerbation or all cause mortality within thirty days. Participants will randomized to receive treatment with either hydrocortisone or prednisolone.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
2,000
ATC code: H02AB06. Can be changed to Prednisolone 50 mg orally.
ATC-code: H02AB09. Can be changed to 50 mg x 4 daily orally if appropriate.
Readmission for COPD exacerbation or death from all causes
Time frame: 30 days
Days alive and out of hospital
Time frame: 14 days
Mortality
Time frame: 90 days
Readmission for COPD exacerbation
Time frame: 90 days
All-cause infections
Defined as a new prescription of antibacterial medication.
Time frame: 90 days
Need for mechanical ventilation
Time frame: 30 days
New onset infections
Time frame: 30 days
Daily amount of insulin administered to the patient by day 7 or discharge from hospital
Time frame: 7 days
Gastrointestinal bleeding
Time frame: 30 days
Blood glucose levels
Measured at day 3 and day 7
Time frame: 7 days
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