Glucocorticoid-induced muscle weakness in ECOPD: a perspective on mechanisms and emerging pharmacological interventions

GC-induced muscle weakness is an under-recognized but potentially modifiable contributor to muscle weakness in ECOPD. Particular promise lies in pharmacological interventions such as myostatin pathway inhibitors, selective androgen receptor modulators, and those inducing IGF-1-related protein synthesis. Dedicated translational and clinical research is urgently needed to evaluate these novel interventions in the setting of ECOPD. Effective countermeasures could preserve muscle mass and function, improve exercise capacity and recovery, shorten hospital stay, and lower the risk of recurrence, offering a new therapeutic opportunity in ECOPD management.