The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the inhalation spray Striverdi Respimat to treat airflow obstruction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as well as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Striverdi Respimat is the brand name for the drug olodaterol. This new drug offers the possibility of long-term maintenance for the millions of Americans that suffer from COPD.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, is a progressive disease that makes it hard to breathe. The disease gets worse over time. COPD can cause coughing that produces large amounts of mucus, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and other symptoms. The leading cause of COPD is cigarette smoking. Long-term exposure to other lung irritants, including pollution, dust, or chemical fumes, can also contribute to COPD.

Overall, COPD results in reduced air flowing in and out of airways in the body. The reduction stems from the airways and air sacs losing their elastic quality, the destruction of walls between many of the air sacs, the walls of the airways becoming thick and inflamed, and increased production of mucus in the airways, which can cause a clog.

COPD is a major cause of disability. It is also the third leading cause of death in the U.S. In addition to the millions that have already been diagnosed, many more may have the disease without knowing it. Over time, the condition worsens and limits the ability to do even routine activities. However, HealthDay reports that the newly approved treatment could relax lung airways and improve conditions for those suffering.