Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects up to three million people in the UK. Sputum production is a common feature of COPD but for some patients it is difficult to clear, leaving them potentially vulnerable to respiratory infections. In this session we will consider the full impact of difficult to clear secretions before discussing available methods of management. We will consider availability, cost and practicality of available treatments and aim to leave delegates with some useful and pragmatic advice to improve management of their COPD patients.

• Understand where Mucolytics fit in Current Guidelines
• Understand the impact of excessive secretions in the airways
• Find out what can be done to improve sputum clearance
• Consider practical aspects such as prescribing choices and referral options