Effect of Roflumilast as Add-On Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis

rheumatoid arthritis. Roflumilast, a selective phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial is designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of roflumilast as add-on therapy to standard DMARD treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Eligible participants will be randomized into two parallel groups to receive either roflumilast, or placebo for a duration of three months.

Clinical assessments will include evaluation of disease activity scores, inflammatory biomarkers, and patient-reported outcomes. Safety and tolerability will be monitored throughout the study period. The findings of this study may provide evidence for novel adjunctive therapeutic strategies in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients with active rheumatoid arthritis according to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology and European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria.
• Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) greater than 2.6.
• Age between 18 and 60 years.
• Male and female patients.
• Patients receiving methotrexate in addition to standard conventional therapy.
• Ability to provide written informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

• Exclusion Criteria:
• Patients with renal or hepatic disease.
• Known hypersensitivity to the study medications.
• Current use of antioxidant supplements.
• History of psychiatric disorders.
• Use of oral prednisolone at a dose greater than 15 mg per day.
• Current treatment with biological disease modifying antirheumatic drugs.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding patients.
• History of cardiac arrhythmias or prolonged QT interval.
• Use of medications known to prolong the QT interval