What is Daxas?
Daxas is an oral phosphodiesterase-4-inhibitor (PDE4 inhibitor) with the active substance roflumilast. It is taken as a tablet and serves for supplemental continuous therapy in heavy COPD with frequent exacerbations.
Roflumilast acts anti-inflammatory and is the first selective PDE4 inhibitor developed specifically for COPD therapy. In addition to bronchial expanding inhalers, it is used and reduces the frequency of COPD deteriorations.
Daxas is produced by AstraZeneca and is available as 250 μg and 500 μg tablets.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Roflumilast
Roflumilast inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase 4:
Active mechanism: 1. PDE4 expands intracellular cAMP Two. Roflumilast selectively inhibits PDE4 3. cAMP level rises in inflammation cells 4. Inflammation reaction is damped
Effects:
- Reduction of neutrophils and eosinophiles in the airways
- reduction of mucus production
- Anti-inflammatory action
- Reduction of COPD extracts
Important difference to Theophyllin: Roflumilast selectively inhibits PDE4, while theophylline acts unselectively. As a result, fewer side effects and better compatibility.
Who is it suitable for?
Daxas is suitable for:
- Heavy COPD (FEV1 < 50%) with chronic bronchitis
- Frequent exacerbations despite standard therapy
- Adding bronchial inhaler therapy
Not suitable:
- For asthma (not approved)
- With light or moderate COPD
- As sole COPD therapy
- In severe liver failure
Important: Daxas is an additional therapy – it does not replace inhalers!
Available Dosages
Daxas tablets:
- 250 μg (start dose)
- 500 μg (maintenance dose)
Dosing scheme:
- First 28 days: 250 μg once a day (single)
- From day 29: 500 μg once a day
- Once a day, regardless of meals
** Ingestion over 4 weeks significantly reduces gastrointestinal side effects.
How to Take
Intake:
- 1 tablet daily with some water
- Independent meals
- Always at the same time
- Start with 250 μg for 4 weeks, then 500 μg g
Important notes:
- Patience: full effect only after weeks
- Gastrointestinal side effects usually improve after 2-4 weeks
- Do not drop abruptly
- Observe weight changes
Contraindications
Do not apply at:
- hypersensitivity to Roflumilast
- Moderate to severe liver failure (Child-Pugh B/C)
Preview at:
- Psychiatric predisorders (depression, suicide)
- Underweight (BMI < 20)
- Latente infections (tuberculosis, herpes, HIV)
- Simultaneous immunosuppressive therapy
pregnant: Contraindicated. Effective prevention is necessary.
Style time: Contraindicated.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- diarrhea (especially at the beginning)
- nausea
- Weight loss
- Headaches
- stomach pain
Occasionally:
- Sleep disorders
- Loss of appetite
- Tremor
- Squeeze
- Gastric complaints
Selten, but important:
- Depressive detunement
- Suicidal thoughts
- Significant weight loss
Important: In case of mood changes or significant weight loss inform doctor immediately!
Interactions
Reactions:
- CYP3A4/CYP1A2-Hemmer – can increase Roflumilast levels
- Rifampicin – lowers Roflumilast level (effect loss)
- Theophyllin – not recommended (additive PDE inhibition)
- Immunosuppressants – increased risk of infection
No relevant interaction with:
- Inhalative bronchodilatators
- Inhalative corticoids
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Daxas right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.