What are the key differences between asthma and COPD pharmacotherapy?

Asthma treatment centers on inhaled corticosteroids as first-line controllers, with step-up therapy adding LABAs, leukotriene modifiers, and biologics. The goal is complete symptom control and normal lung function. COPD treatment starts with bronchodilators, either a long-acting muscarinic antagonist like tiotropium or a LABA, with inhaled corticosteroids added only for patients with frequent exacerbations and elevated eosinophils. COPD therapy aims to reduce symptoms and exacerbation frequency since lung function decline cannot be fully reversed.