Roflumilast is used for: Reducing the risk of flare-ups and worsened breathing problems in certain patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Roflumilast is a phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. Exactly how it works is not known.

How to use roflumilast:

Use roflumilast as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Roflumilast comes with an extra patient information sheet called a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Read it again each time you get roflumilast refilled.
• Take roflumilast by mouth with or without food.
• If you miss a dose of roflumilast, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use roflumilast.

Important safety information for Roflumilast:

• Roflumilast may cause dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use roflumilast with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Roflumilast will not stop sudden, severe breathing problems. Be sure to carry a short-acting bronchodilator inhaler with you at all times to treat any breathing problems that may occur between doses of roflumilast (eg, severe or sudden onset of wheezing or shortness of breath). If you have any questions about which medicines stop sudden, severe breathing problems, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Patients who take roflumilast may be at increased risk of mental or mood changes, including suicidal thoughts or actions. The risk may be greater in patients who have had these problems in the past. Watch patients who take roflumilast closely. Contact the doctor at once if new, worsened, or sudden symptoms, such as depressed mood, anxious behavior, trouble sleeping, or any unusual change in mood or behavior occur. Contact the doctor right away if any signs of suicidal thoughts or actions occur.
• Roflumilast may cause weight loss in some patients. You may need regular weight checks while taking roflumilast. Discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor.
• Roflumilast should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN; safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.
  PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of taking roflumilast while you are pregnant. It is not known if roflumilast is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking roflumilast.