A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel-Group, 12-Week Study to Evaluate the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Fluticasone Propionate/Salmeterol DISKUS 250/50mcg BID Compared With Salmeterol DISKUS 50mcg Twice Daily in Subjects With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

This study evaluates the effect of two medicines on COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). The study will last 12 weeks. At the end of 12 weeks of treatment, subjects will stop the study medicines for 2 weeks. The study will involve 6 visits to the clinic. Subjects who elect to undergo bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) procedures will have 8 study visits. Subjects will give sputum, blood, and in some cases BAL samples. Subjects will have breathing tests and will complete diary cards during the study. All study medicines and examinations will be given at no cost to the study subjects. Both medicines used in this study have been approved by the US FDA.