Roflumilast

Roflumilast is a medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), specifically in patients with chronic bronchitis or emphysema. This condition is characterized by persistent airway inflammation and lung damage, causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing.
Roflumilast works by reducing inflammation in the airways and the lungs, which helps to improve lung function and reduce the frequency of exacerbations (flare-ups) in COPD patients. It is typically prescribed as an adjunct therapy alongside other standard treatments, including bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
The medication belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors. PDE4 is an enzyme that breaks down a signaling molecule called cyclic AMP (cAMP) in the body. Cyclic AMP is involved in the regulation of various cellular processes, including inflammation. By inhibiting the breakdown of cAMP, roflumilast increases its levels and reduces inflammation in the lungs, leading to the therapeutic effects observed in COPD patients.
Roflumilast is not suitable for everyone. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of psychiatric disorders, as it has been associated with an increased risk of depression, suicidal thoughts, and behavioral changes. Additionally, it should not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney impairment, as this may affect the medication’s effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.