Priority 8 from the COPD Exacerbation PSP

UNCERTAINTY: What are the risks and benefits of 'rescue packs' used to prevent COPD exacerbations, and how should they be best used?  (JLA PSP Priority 8)
Overall ranking 8
JLA question ID 0104/8
Explanatory note People with COPD may be given a 'rescue pack' of medicines to have at home that they can start at the first sign of an exacerbation.  However, both under-use and over-use of these can cause problems.  This question aims to better understand the pros and cons of using rescue packs, and work out the best way to support people to use them in the most effective way. 
Evidence

This question is an area of uncertainty. 
Health Research Classification System category  Respiratory
Extra information provided by this PSP
Original uncertainty examples

I have heard that some GP's still refuse to issue rescue packs, why? ~ Should we give rescue packs to all COPD patients ~ Rescue packs frie d or foe? ~ Do patients with rescue packs (regardless of how appropriately they use them) use GP and / or ED or other urgent care services less than those who don't have them? ~ Benefits of rescue packs. ~ Efficacy of rescue packs/overuse
Submitted by Patient, Public, Healthcare professional
PSP information
PSP unique ID 0104
PSP name COPD Exacerbation PSP
Total number of uncertainties identified by this PSP. 51 (To see a full list of all uncertainties identified, please see the detailed spreadsheet held on the JLA website)
Date of priority setting workshop 1 April 2020