MUG in new international research programme

9.04.2019

MUG join to the new international study launched in early 2019 is seeking among people affected by respiratory diseases, especially chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and interstitial lung disease (ILD) and severe breathlessness. Breathlessness is a debilitating and frightening symptom that currently effects an estimated 15 million people in Europe, with this figure set to increase in the future.

This BETTER-B (Better Treatments for Refractory and Chronic Breathlessness) new research programme, has several components. First, it surveys doctors about their current. Second trials a new medicine for people who are severely affected by breathlessness and chronic respiratory diseases. Third, it launches a new website with the latest information on treatments. Fourth, it will produce a new European position statement specialists on breathlessness management.

The BETTER-B programme builds on an impressive international body of work from the consortium partners to tackle the problem of breathlessness. These include studies into the effects of breathlessness on people’s lives, the different types of breathlessness experienced and into better treatments. A randomised controlled trial found benefits when a new integrated Breathlessness Support Service was offered.

Comprehensive systematic reviews found benefits of walking aids and other non-pharmacological treatments, and of holistic services. Other reviews did not find benefits for benzodiazepine drugs, even though these are commonly used.

Breathlessness is a persistent yet often ignored symptom, and the BETTER-B team hope the testing of mirtazapine can establish whether or not it will be another treatment option for those with COPD or ILD suffering from its debilitating effects.” medicinehealth.leeds.ac.uk

BETTER-B is funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

More information betterbreathe.eu.