Which medication is a common treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Albuterol is a common treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) because it is a bronchodilator that helps to relax and open the airways in the lungs, making it easier for patients to breathe. As a short-acting beta-2 agonist, it provides quick relief from acute symptoms of COPD, such as shortness of breath and wheezing. It is often used as a rescue inhaler during exacerbations of the disease.

In treating COPD, the goal is to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life, where bronchodilators like albuterol play a crucial role. They target the underlying issue of narrowed airways, helping to ease airflow.

Other medications listed do not serve the primary purpose of treating COPD. Amoxicillin is an antibiotic effective for bacterial infections but does not address the airway constriction associated with COPD. Niacin, often used to manage cholesterol levels, has no relevance in the treatment of respiratory conditions. Tramadol is a pain reliever that does not affect areodynamics in the respiratory system and would not have a direct impact on COPD management. Thus, albuterol stands out as the suitable choice for this condition.