PDE4 inhibitor

A PDE4 inhibitor is a medication that blocks an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4), which normally breaks down a signaling molecule called cAMP inside cells. By inhibiting PDE4, these drugs increase cAMP levels, leading to reduced inflammation and immune responses. This makes PDE4 inhibitors useful in treating conditions like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and psoriasis, where controlling inflammation is beneficial. They help improve symptoms by modulating the body's immune activity, providing targeted anti-inflammatory effects without broadly suppressing the entire immune system.