Comparing Hydrocortisone and Prednisolone for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (AECOPD)

The goal of this cluster randomized controlled trial is to determine the optimal treatment for Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The study compares the effects and side effects of hydrocortisone and prednisolone in patients above 40 years old diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acute exacerbation. The main question is whether there is a difference in readmission for COPD excerbation or all cause mortality within thirty days. Participants will randomized to receive treatment with either hydrocortisone or prednisolone.

NCT Number	NCT06892210
Lead Sponsor	Copenhagen Respiratory Research
Conditions	Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Enrollment	2,000 participants
Start Date	2026-03-10
Primary Completion	2030-08-01 (estimated)
Study Completion	2030-11-01 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-03-18