Roflumilast
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Molecule Summary
| Uses | Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) |
| Therapy | Drugs For Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease |
| Side Effects | Diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain, headache, weight loss |
Medicines
available
19k pincodes
Molecule Description
Roflumilast is used for treating long-term lung conditions that make breathing difficult, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This occurs when the airways in the lungs become blocked or damaged, usually due to smoking or prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals or pollution. The condition tends to worsen over time.
It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication that helps to reduce inflammation in the lungs and throughout the body in individuals with COPD. It functions by inhibiting an enzyme that is critical to the inflammation process. Targeting various forms of this enzyme helps reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in patients with COPD. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor.
Uses
Roflumilast is used to treat chronic lung conditions that hinder breathing, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This medication is administered in severe cases of COPD to help prevent flare-ups and the worsening of symptoms.
Contraindications
When should one not use Roflumilast
- If you are allergic to roflumilast or any other component of this medicine.
- If you have moderate to severe liver problems.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Weight loss
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Breast Feeding
Driving
Alcohol
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You notice unexplained weight loss while taking Roflumilast.
- You have a history of severe immune system issues (such as HIV, multiple sclerosis, or lupus).
- You have a severe infection.
- You have cancer (excluding basal cell skin cancer).
- You have heart failure.
- You have a history of depression or other mental health concerns.
- You have latent infections like tuberculosis, hepatitis, or herpes.
- You are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, particularly immunosuppressants, fluvoxamine, cimetidine, or enoxacin.
- You have a rare hereditary disorder such as galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.
- You are currently taking Theophylline.
- You experience any changes in mood or behaviour, including suicidal thoughts, while taking Roflumilast.
- You experience persistent or worsening side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea, or headaches.
- You are underweight (less than 60kg) and experience sleep disturbances while taking Roflumilast.
- You have kidney disease or have previously undergone a kidney transplant or liver disease.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Roflumilast works by reducing swelling in the lungs and throughout the body. It inhibits the primary enzyme responsible for this swelling. In doing so, it alleviates symptoms and prevents the condition from deteriorating. It obstructs the enzyme that significantly contributes to severe lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rendering it a suitable treatment for this illness.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are currently taking or may take to avoid any potential interactions.
- If you are taking strong medications such as rifampicin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, or phenytoin alongside Roflumilast, they could reduce the effectiveness of Roflumilast.
- If you are taking medications like erythromycin, ketoconazole, theophylline, or birth control pills containing gestodene and ethinyl oestradiol, consult your doctor as they may affect how Roflumilast works.
- Cimetidine may influence the blood levels of Roflumilast. Consult your doctor if you are taking this medicine.
Dosage
Overdose
- If you consume excessive Roflumilast, you may experience symptoms such as headaches, stomach issues, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, light-headedness, sweating, and low blood pressure.
- If you suspect you have taken an overdose of this medication, please contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.
Missed a Dose
If you miss a dose of your medication, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of this medication to compensate for the missed one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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