The manufacturers of Atrovent and Spiriva (Pfizer and Boehringer Ingelheim) sprang to the defense of their products - as well they should - stating, "We have disclosed to regulatory authorities worldwide...information, which is part of a very robust analysis of all...trials...Patients and physicians can be confident that Spiriva is a safe and effective medication. In clinical trials and since its introduction, we have collected extensive safety data adding up to an exposure of more than 10 million patient years."

Keep in mind, also, that many medications are used widely for years in Europe and other regions of the world before they are FDA approved for use in the United States. I don't know about you, but in looking over the above information, I'd say there's enough doubt about the overall negative impact of Atrovent and Spiriva on most people with COPD.

Five Things to do When Alarming Results Hit the News

Now, here are a few tips for keeping your cool, while maintaining your health, the next time you see or hear the results of a troubling medical research study about a medication you're on.

1. Stay calm. Don't panic. You're on your medicines for a reason, and that's because your doctor who has examined you and knows you, feels it's best for you. Stick with your current medication schedule for now.

2. Go to the experts. Visit the website or call the headquarters of the major organization that provides information and resources for your specific disease. For example, if it is a lung medication in question, go the American Lung Association website, or the leading lung health organization in your country or region. The leadership there should quickly post information responding to these concerns.

3. Contact your local program. If you are involved (and I hope you are!) in a local program linking you to regular medical support, such as Pulmonary or Cardiac Rehabilitation, support for Diabetic, or Heart Failure / fluid monitoring, etc., talk to a medical professional at that facility. He or she is especially knowledgeable about your specific medications, will appreciate your concern, and give you general advice about what to do.

4. Call your doctor. Physician offices are really busy, I know, but they should be prepared to respond to these concerns and tell you if you should continue using your medications or stop taking them.

5. Think historically. Although medical research is essential, and extremely important for finding cures and improving health overall, the alarming conclusions of some medical research studies are found later to be flawed or applicable to a small number of people taking that medication. Think about the big picture and don't believe everything you hear the minute you hear it!

So, the next time you're watching the news or you log on your computer and see "Recent Study Reveals Startling Results..." stop and take a deep breath. Before you break into a cold sweat with your meds in one hand and a garbage bag in the other, stay calm and think, and seek solid help from experts and medical professionals who know you.