FDA Approves New Drug for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

The FDA has approved the phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor roflumilast (Daliresp) to prevent COPD exacerbations.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved roflumilast, a pill taken daily to decrease the frequency of flare-ups (exacerbations) or worsening of symptoms from severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.

COPD is a serious lung disease that makes breathing difficult. Symptoms can include breathlessness, chronic cough, and excessive phlegm. An exacerbation can last up to several weeks and result in lung function decline, increased risk of death, and may be associated with severe anxiety.

Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of COPD, according to t