Some people with COPD ask about having a “rescue pack” of antibiotics and/or steroids to keep at home.
Rescue packs are not routinely recommended and are only suitable for a small number of carefully selected patients.
What is a COPD rescue pack?
A rescue pack usually contains:
- A short course of oral steroids, and
- Sometimes antibiotics
They are intended only for specific patients who have had previous COPD flare-ups and have been trained how and when to use them safely.
Why are rescue packs not routinely issued?
Using antibiotics and steroids when they are not clearly needed can cause harm, including:
- Increased risk of infections and antibiotic resistance
- Side effects from steroids (including bone thinning, diabetes, and infection risk)
- Delays in seeking medical help when symptoms are more serious or different
Because of these risks, current NHS guidance states that rescue packs:
- Should not be part of routine COPD care
- Should only be issued after specialist-level assessment and education
- Must always be followed by a clinical review after use
What should I do if my COPD symptoms worsen?
If your symptoms worsen, please contact the practice for advice. We can:
- Assess whether this is a COPD flare-up or something else
- Decide whether treatment is needed
- Make sure you get the right treatment at the right time
If symptoms are severe, unusual for you, or worsening quickly, seek urgent medical help.
How we help reduce COPD flare-ups
Our focus is on preventing exacerbations by:
- Optimising inhaler treatment and technique
- Supporting smoking cessation
- Ensuring vaccinations are up to date
- Referring to pulmonary rehabilitation where appropriate
- Providing personalised COPD self-management advice
If you have questions about your COPD management plan, please book a routine review with the practice.