Roflumilast on Markers of Bone Metabolism and Endothelial Function in COPD

Effect of Roflumilast on Systemic Markers of Bone Metabolism and Endothelial Function in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Our primary hypothesis is that Roflumilast (500 μcg, once daily) will significantly decrease surrogate markers of bone metabolism and early cardiovascular disease in individuals with moderate to severe airflow obstruction and a chronic bronchitis phenotype.

Study participants will be given Roflumilast 500 micrograms daily for 30 days. At baseline, prior to drug administration, blood samples will be collected for analysis of markers of bone metabolism (C-terminal telopeptide of Type I Collagen (CTx), Amino-terminal Propeptide of Type-1 Procollagen (P1NP) and participants will undergo measurement of endothelial function with measurement of brachial flow mediated dilation. After completion of one month of Roflumilast therapy, participants will have a repeat blood collection for measurement of CTx and P1NP and repeat measurement of brachial flow mediated dilation testing.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjects between the ages of 50 and 70 with a minimum of ten-pack years of tobacco exposure, airflow obstruction (FEV1/FVC < 0.70) with an FEV1 < 70%
• baseline sputum production at least some of the time as reported on the Saint George's Respiratory Questionnaire, and at least one exacerbation within the past year

Exclusion Criteria:

• Subjects with chronic prednisone use, antiresorptive therapy use (bisphosphonates, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone)
• Subjects with a body mass index less than 18 or greater than 34