Summary: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) remains a significant problem of contemporary respiratory medicine. The paper focuses on the recent GOLD 2018 update in view of new clinical trials on the efficacy and safety of triple therapy (LABA/LAMA/ICS). The goal of this paper is to familiarize practicing physicians with the new paradigm of diagnostics, classification and management of stable COPD. Special attention is given to the subpopulation of patients with frequent exacerbations, who may obtain clinical benefits not only from bronchodilators but also anti-inflammatory therapy.