Bronchiectasis is abnormal and permanent enlargement of the bronchi. Although it is rarely asymptomatic, it usually presents with sputum, cough, shortness of breath, and recurrent infection attacks. Bronchiectasis occurs due to infectious and non-infectious causes rather than a single disease.1Although there is no definitive data on the incidence and prevalence of bronchiectasis, with the introduction of antibiotics, the frequency of bronchiectasis has decreased compared with the pre-antibiotic period.2,3 Although the introduction of high-resolution computed tomography has facilitated the diagnosis of bronchiectasis, treatment options are still limited in today’s conditions. The basic principles in the treatment of bronchiectasis can be listed as reducing symptoms, improving quality of life, preventing progression of damage and exacerbations, and protecting respiratory functions. There are techniques to ensure bronchial hygiene and antibiotic treatment options to both treat and prevent exacerbations.4,5

Although there is no currently defined indication for inhaler drugs in patients with bronchiectasis, inhaler drugs may have an effect on respiratory functions and exacerbations. Patients with bronchiectasis may have symptoms similar to those seen in asthma, such as shortness of breath, cough, and sputum production, and hypersensitivity in the airways may be observed.6 Considering this situation, the combination of inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta 2 agonist or inhaled corticosteroid alone may be beneficial for patients with bronchiectasis.7 Inhaled corticosteroids may suppress inflammation in patients with bronchiectasis by showing anti-inflammatory effects. Although there is insufficient evidence to recommend the routine use of inhaled steroids in adults with bronchiectasis, it has been stated that they can be tried in those with symptoms that are difficult to control.8 It was determined that more positive responses were obtained in both exacerbation and respiratory function tests in a group using inhaled corticosteroids compared with a placebo group.9

Although airflow limitation is detected in approximately more than 40 % of patients with bronchiectasis, studies evaluating anticholinergic treatment in bronchiectasis are scant.10,11 Anticholinergic drugs block the parasympathetic system, dilate the bronchi through muscarinic receptors in the smooth muscles of the airways, and reduce the amount of sputum by reducing secretion production in the submucosal glands.12

This study aimed to investigate the effects of inhaler therapy use on respiratory functions and clinical outcomes in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.