Daliresp

If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a healthcare provider may prescribe Daliresp. Although it is not exactly clear how this medication works to treat COPD, it is thought to have some anti-inflammatory properties. This drug comes in the form of a tablet and is typically taken once daily. Possible side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, and weight loss.

Daliresp Medication Information

What Is Daliresp?

Daliresp™ (roflumilast) is a prescription medication used to treat severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Unlike most COPD medications that are available as inhalers, Daliresp comes in tablet form and is taken just once a day.

(Click Daliresp Uses for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes This Medication?

Daliresp is made by Nycomed GmbH for Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

How Does Daliresp Work?

Daliresp inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type-4 (PDE4). By inhibiting PDE4, Daliresp increases the level of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in cells. It is not entirely clear how this action helps with COPD treatment, although it is thought that anti-inflammatory actions may be involved.

Clinical Effects

Clinical studies have shown that Daliresp reduces the risk of moderate or severe COPD exacerbations by 15 to 18 percent, compared to treatment with a placebo (a "sugar pill" that does not contain any active ingredients).

When and How to Take It

Some general considerations to keep in mind during treatment with this medication include the following:

Daliresp comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth once a day.
Try to take your dose at the same time each day to keep an even level in your blood.
You can take this medication with or without food.
For this medicine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.

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