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Mar 20, 2023
COPD medication

Daliresp is Now Generic

What is Daliresp (Roflumilast)?

Daliresp belongs to a drug class known as phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4) inhibitors. They work by reducing your lung edema or swelling by increasing cAMP (cyclic AMP; an intracellular second messenger for many hormones and neurotransmitters), resulting in a reduction in lung inflammation.

How did Daliresp go generic?

The generic version of Daliresp was recently released on February 17, 2022, which should assist in lowering the cost of this medication.

The FDA has authorized generic prescription medications as being of the same high caliber and potency as brand-name medications. The same high requirements for quality must be met by generic drug manufacturing and distribution facilities as they are for brand medications.

What is Daliresp (Roflumilast) used for?

Daliresp (Roflumilast) is used to lessen the frequency of episodes or worsening of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) symptoms. It's prescribed to people with severe COPD, a medical disorder that affects your lungs and airways.

In other words, this medication is essentially reserved for individuals with very severe COPD, chronic bronchitis, and a history of exacerbations.

The effects of COPD on your lungs cannot be reversed and long-term progression or deterioration results in a steady loss of lung function.

Do not take this medication to treat abrupt episodes of respiratory issues, such as difficulty breathing. Ask your doctor whether any other medications can be used to address the signs of an emergency respiratory condition.

Daliresp (Roflumilast) may be able to manage COPD, but it cannot cure it. This medication should be taken even if you're feeling better. Do not discontinue taking Daliresp without consulting your doctor.

How is Daliresp (Roflumilast) administered?

The initial dose is 250 mcg tablet taken by mouth daily for approximately 4 weeks. The maintenance dose is 500 mcg taken by mouth daily. It can be taken with or without food.

Keep it out of the reach of young children and tightly sealed in its original container. Store it at normal room temperature, away from sources of extreme heat and moisture, such as the bathroom.

Side effects

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea
  • Muscle pain, including back pain
  • Flu-like symptoms: runny and/or stuffy nose
  • Decrease appetite
  • Tremor(uncontrollable shaking)
Serious side effects
  • Changes in your mood, such as anxiety and/or depression
  • Impulsive thoughts
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Insomnia
  • Pain and/or burning sensation when urinating

If you’re experiencing any of the serious side effects listed above, immediately call your doctor and stop taking this medication.

Warning

If you suffer from mild to moderate liver disease, avoid using this medication.

Occasionally, people experience suicidal thoughts and/or behaviors. Be mindful of any changes in your symptoms or mood. Inform your physician of any new or escalating symptoms.

Make sure your doctor is aware of all the current drugs you are taking, as well as any that have been discontinued or changed. Some medications shouldn't be taken together since they may interfere with one another.

If you lose weight quickly and without intending to, see your physician right away.

Interactions

This medication is a substrate of CYP450 3A4 and 1A2 (which is an important enzyme in your body that’s responsible for the metabolism of numerous drugs).

The use of Daliresp with strong enzyme inducers is not recommended, including the following drugs:

Taking Daliresp with CYP3A4 inhibitors or CYP1A2 inhibitors will increase levels of this mediation, including the following drugs:

  • Erythromycin
  • Ketoconazole
  • Fluvoxamine
  • Cimetidine

Your physician might need to adjust the dosage of your medications or keep a close eye on you for side effects.

Tell your doctor about all the drugs you are taking, including those not listed above, as many other drugs may also interact with Daliresp (generic: Roflumilast).

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In this case, skip the forgotten dose and take the next one at the usual time. Do not take 2 doses together to make up for a missed dose.

Speak With Your Doctor

The best way to prevent COPD from progressing is to take good care of yourself!

Daliresp (generic: Roflumilast) is relatively considered a safe and effective medication when taken appropriately (as prescribed by your doctor). Talk to your doctor today about using Daliresp (generic: Roflumilast) and send your prescription to Marley Drug. Save up to 95% compared to your local pharmacy by using Marley Drug.

Plus, Marley Drug provides free nationwide shipping, allowing you to receive your medication at no additional cost straight to your door.