Effects of long-acting beta-2 agonist treatment on daily energy balance and body composition in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of long-acting beta-2 agonist (formoterol) treatment on the resting metabolic rate (RMR), daily physical activity, body composition and anthropometry, nutritional status, and quality of life of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Materials and methods: A total of 30 male patients who were diagnosed with COPD participated in the study. The RMR was determined using an indirect calorimeter, daily physical activity was measured with an accelerometer, and body composition was established by bioelectric impedance analysis. Body circumference and skinfold thickness measurements were carried out. Pulmonary function tests were performed with a spirometer. The 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) quality of life questionnaire and dietary intake records were obtained from the participants. Following the initial measurements, the patients received a 12-μg formoterol inhaler twice daily for 3 months. At the end of the 3 months, all of the measurements and questionnaires were collected once again. Results: Although the RMR, daily physical activity, body mass index, body fat percentage and fat distribution measurements, dietary intake record, and quality of life questionnaire scores were not statistically different before and after treatment in the patients with COPD, an increase in pulmonary function tests (forced expiratory volume in 1 s and peak expiratory flow) was recorded. Conclusion: Our results suggest that 3-month long-acting beta-2 agonist treatment does not change the daily energy balance and body composition in male COPD patients.