Doxycycline and Airway Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Rationale: COPD is a disease characterized by chronic inflammation and irreversible airway obstruction. Chronic inflammation lead to degradation of extracellular matrix and hereby destruction of lung parenchyma. Tetracyclines are known for their anti-inflammatory properties in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Objective: To assess the effect of doxycycline on markers of neutrophilic inflammation and proteolytic activity in induced sputum of stable GOLD II and III COPD patients. Study population: Thirty patients with stable GOLD II COPD. Intervention: Placebo versus doxycycline in randomised design.