Indications
Daliresp (active ingredient: roflumilast) is a prescription medication indicated for:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Daliresp is used for the treatment of severe COPD associated with chronic bronchitis and a history of frequent exacerbations in adults.
Daliresp belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitors, which work by reducing inflammation in the lungs and airways, thereby improving breathing and reducing the risk of COPD exacerbations.
Uses and Dosage
Daliresp (Roflumilast) is a tablet that is taken orally, either with or without food as recommended by your doctor. Take the tablet, swallow it, and then drink a glass of water afterward. This medication is usually prescribed to be taken once daily.
To get the most benefit from Daliresp (Roflumilast), it should be used regularly at evenly spaced intervals. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not increase your dose, use the medication more frequently, or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.
The recommended dosages of DALIRESP are as follows: start with a dose of 250 mcg once daily for 4 weeks, and then increase to 500 mcg once daily thereafter. This is the maintenance dose, and it can be taken with or without food. This dosage regimen may reduce the rate of treatment discontinuation in some patients.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Roflumilast:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Minor weight loss
Serious Side Effects of Roflumilast:
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Shaking or tremors
- Trouble sleeping
- Unusual/extreme weight loss
- Mental/mood changes (i.e., suicidal thoughts or behavior)
Form and Strength
Daliresp (Roflumilast) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Daliresp: Tablet
- 250 mg
- 500 mg
Roflumilast: Tablet
- 500 mcg
Caution
- Before taking roflumilast, tell your doctor about your full medical history, such as any issues related to the immune system, liver, heart, cancer, infections, mental health, or mood. This will help your doctor to determine whether the medication may be suitable and safe for you and to identify any potential interactions with other medications that you might be taking.
- Cases of suicidal ideation and behavior, including completed suicide, have been observed in the post-marketing setting in patients with or without a history of depression who were taking Daliresp (roflumilast). Patients should be aware and fully informed that such behavior may occur prior to providing the first prescription.
- Patients taking Daliresp (roflumilast) may experience mental health problems such as difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and depression. If you have a history of depression or mental health problems speak with your healthcare provider before beginning this medication.
- To reduce the risk of adverse effects such as dizziness and headache, it is advised to limit alcohol intake while taking Daliresp. Caution should be taken when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or using machinery.
- Use strong cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers such as rifampicin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, and phenytoin when taking this medication due to potential drug interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who should not take roflumilast?
People with a known hypersensitivity to roflumilast, people with certain liver problems, and people with a history of depression should not take roflumilast. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also not take this medication.
How should roflumilast be taken?
Roflumilast should be taken once daily, with or without food. It should be taken at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in the body.
When is the best time to take this medication?
You may take it at any time of the day or depending on the recommendation of your physician.
Does this medication cause weight loss?
This drug may cause minor weight loss.
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