Saudi Journal of Medicine (SJM)
Volume-3 | Issue-08 | 431-441
Original Research Article
Effect of Roflumilast As Add On Therapy in Airway Inflammation and Serum Inflammatory Markers in COPD Patients
Thasvi Kareem, Ashkar Manakkalavalappil, Sudha M J, Ramani P.T
Published : Aug. 30, 2018
Abstract
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is associated with increased inflammatory cells. Combination of long acting beta agonist and inhaled corticosteroids are standard treatment. Roflumilast targets inflammatory cells and decreases the frequency of exacerbation. This study looks at the effect of Roflumilast on inflammatory cells in sputum and inflammatory markers in the blood when used as add-on therapy in COPD patients. This observational comparative study conducted in Department of Pulmonary Medicine for 1.5 years duration. 70 COPD patients were divided into two Group A (Roflumilast + Standard treatment) and Group B (Standard treatment). Pulmonary Function Test, Sputum Eosinophil & Sputum Neutrophil, CRP were measured at baseline and after 4 months of treatment in both groups. Intergroup analysis between Group A and Group B was done at baseline and after 4 months. Mean age of patients in Group A was 64.3 years and in Group B was 61.2 years. Maximum patients were in age groups 51-60 and 61-70 years. Of total 70 patients, 60% were males and 40% females. Majority of patients in both groups had low BMI. Sputum inflammatory cells were significantly lower in Roflumilast group. Pulmonary function parameters showed significant improvement in Roflumilast treated group. There was no significant decrease in CRP when compared between two groups. Roflumilast, add-on therapy to standard treatment in COPD patients have improved lung function and decreased level of inflammatory cells in airway significantly.