Roflumilast 500mcg

Roflumilast 500mcg — Uses and Benefits

Roflumilast 500mcg is used mainly for severe COPD associated with chronic bronchitis, to reduce the frequency of flare-ups.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Reducing the number of COPD exacerbations (flare-ups) in patients with a history of frequent flare-ups
• Long-term maintenance treatment of severe chronic bronchitis-type COPD, add-on to other COPD medicines

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks an enzyme called PDE4 inside lung and immune cells
• This lowers inflammation in the airways over time
• It helps prevent worsening of symptoms rather than giving immediate relief

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not for sudden breathlessness or acute asthma attacks
• Not a bronchodilator and does not open airways quickly
• Not used for asthma as a primary treatment
• Not suitable for mild COPD without frequent flare-ups

This medicine works slowly and is meant for long-term control, not immediate symptom relief. It should always be used alongside other COPD treatments as advised by your doctor.

How to Use Roflumilast 500mcg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Take at the same time each day to build a routine
• Continue taking it regularly even if you feel well, as it works to prevent future flare-ups
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep in its original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Roflumilast 500mcg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Headache
• Weight loss
• Reduced appetite

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Difficulty sleeping
• Dizziness
• Stomach pain
• Back pain
• Feeling generally unwell

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Signs of depression, anxiety, or thoughts of self-harm
• Severe or persistent diarrhoea leading to dehydration
• Unexplained significant weight loss
• Signs of allergic reaction such as rash, swelling of face/lips, difficulty breathing
• Severe stomach pain or signs of liver problems like yellowing of eyes/skin

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Roflumilast 500mcg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to roflumilast or any of its ingredients
• Have moderate to severe liver disease
• Have a history of depression with suicidal thoughts or self-harm
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any history of mental health problems, especially depression
• Have unexplained weight loss or low body weight
• Have liver problems of any kind
• Are taking other medicines, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
• Are planning pregnancy or are breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Strong enzyme inducers such as rifampicin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, phenytoin may reduce its effect
• Strong enzyme inhibitors such as ketoconazole, fluvoxamine, cimetidine, erythromycin may increase side effects
• Oral contraceptives containing certain hormone combinations may need review
• Always share your complete medicine list with your doctor or pharmacist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can this medicine be used during an acute asthma or COPD attack?

No, it is not a rescue medicine and does not give quick relief; use your prescribed inhaler for sudden symptoms.

How long does it take to work?

It may take several weeks to months of regular use before you notice fewer flare-ups, so continue as directed even if you feel no immediate change.

Can I stop this medicine once I feel better?

• Do not stop without consulting your doctor, as stopping suddenly may increase the risk of COPD flare-ups.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.