Description
Indications
Roflumilast is a medication that is utilized to manage and prevent symptoms of ongoing lung disease, such as wheezing and shortness of breath, which are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To treat COPD, use roflumilast in combination with other medications, such as bronchodilators like salmeterol and ipratropium.
This medication reduces irritation and swelling in the airways, which helps control breathing problems, resulting in less time missed from work or school. To achieve the desired effect, this medication should be used regularly. It should not be used to alleviate sudden shortness of breath or wheezing, and if such symptoms occur, a quick-relief inhaler like albuterol should be used as prescribed.
Uses and Dosage
Roflumilast is administered orally in the form of tablets. It can be taken with or without food once a day at approximately the same time each day. Take roflumilast exactly as directed, neither more nor less, and not more frequently than prescribed by your physician.
Roflumilast should not be used to alleviate sudden attacks of breathing problems. Discuss the use of other medications with your doctor to treat such symptoms.
While roflumilast may regulate COPD, it does not cure it. Even if you feel better, continue taking roflumilast. Do not discontinue taking roflumilast without first consulting with your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- dizziness
- headache
- back pain
- muscle spasm
- decrease in appetite
- uncontrollable shaking of a part of your body
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- unexplained weight loss
- unusual tiredness or weakness
Caution
Before taking roflumilast, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to using this medication, inform your physician or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have liver disease, cancer, heart disease (such as heart failure), current or prior infections (such as tuberculosis or herpes), mental or mood disorders (such as depression or thoughts of suicide), unexplained or significant weight loss, or immune system disorders (such as lupus or HIV).
This drug may cause dizziness. Alcohol or cannabis can intensify the effects of dizziness. Until you can perform tasks safely, avoid driving, using machinery, or engaging in any activities that require alertness.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only if it is clearly necessary. Consult with your doctor regarding the risks and advantages of using roflumilast.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Form and Strength
Daliresp is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Daliresp tablet:
- 250mcg
- 500mcg
-
roflumilast tablet:
- 500mcg
FAQ
Is Daliresp a steroid?
Daliresp is not a steroid (or corticosteroid). It belongs to a different class of medications called phosphodiesterase inhibitors.
Does Daliresp cause weight gain?
Daliresp reduces body weight and increases energy expenditure.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/daliresp/what-is
- https://dom-pubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dom.12839#:~:text=3.1%20Roflumilast%20reduces%20body%20weight%20and%20increases%20energy%20expenditure
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/roflumilast-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20074855
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a611034.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-155809/daliresp-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/daliresp.html