Is Zoryve (roflumilast) a steroid?

No, Zoryve (roflumilast) isn't a steroid. It's a different type of medication called a [PDE4 inhibitor](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/pde4-inhibitors). Like steroids, it helps lower skin inflammation, but it works in a different way. Zoryve (roflumilast) also has different side effects than topical steroids. Studies show that it's generally safe to use Zoryve (roflumilast) for [a long time](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12860757/). But topical steroids are usually recommended to be used for [only a few weeks at a time](https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2009/0115/p135.html) to avoid [side effects like skin thinning](https://www.goodrx.com/classes/topical-corticosteroids/what-to-know). Talk to your dermatologist to see which kind of medication is right for you.

Is Zoryve (roflumilast) a biologic?

No, Zoryve (roflumilast) isn't a biologic. A [biologic](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/biologics/examples) is a medication that comes from a living source, such as proteins. But Zoryve (roflumilast) is a chemical that's made in a laboratory.

How long does Zoryve (roflumilast) take to work?

How fast Zoryve (roflumilast) starts to work can be different for everyone. Based on studies, some people with [plaque psoriasis](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2796379) or [seborrheic dermatitis](https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(24)00107-5/fulltext) might start to see improvement within the first 2 weeks of treatment. [For eczema](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1081120623008840), some people have had less itchiness as early as a day after they started using Zoryve (roflumilast). Keep in mind that it can take a few months or longer to see the full effects of the medication. Talk to your prescriber or dermatologist if you don't notice any improvement after a few weeks of using Zoryve (roflumilast).

Is Zoryve (roflumilast) supposed to burn?

It's not common, but some people have felt [stinging, tingling or burning](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12860757/) where they applied Zoryve (roflumilast). For most people, this feeling is [mild](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10157502/) and it doesn't last long. It often happens less often as your skin gets used to the medication. If the burning is intense, causes a severe rash, or doesn't go away, reach out to your care team. They can check if you're having an allergic reaction.

Is there a generic for Zoryve (roflumilast)?

No, there's currently no [generic version](https://www.goodrx.com/drugs/medication-basics/brand-vs-generic-drugs) for either the Zoryve (roflumilast) cream or foam. As of March 2026, it's only available as a brand-name medication.

What's the difference between Vtama and Zoryve (roflumilast)?

Zoryve (roflumilast) and [Vtama (tapinarof)](https://www.goodrx.com/vtama/what-is) both come as creams used once a day on the skin. They can both treat [eczema](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/eczema) in adults and children ages 2 and older. They can also treat [plaque psoriasis](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/psoriasis/best-psoriasis-cream). But the Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.3% cream is approved for people 6 years and up while Vtama is for adults for that skin condition. Zoryve (roflumilast) also comes as a foam for plaque psoriasis or [seborrheic dermatitis](https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/seborrheic-dermatitis). Talk to your dermatologist to [compare](https://www.goodrx.com/compare/zoryve-vs-vtama) and help you decide which medication is right for you.

Zoryve

roflumilast

Used for Eczema, Plaque Psoriasis, Seborrheic Dermatitis

Zoryve (roflumilast) is a cream and foam that's approved for treating certain skin conditions in adults and children. Both can be used for plaque psoriasis. The cream is also used for atopic dermatitis (eczema), and the foam can also be used for seborrheic dermatitis. Zoryve (roflumilast) is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. It works to lessen inflammation on the skin. You apply Zoryve (roflumilast) to the affected area(s) of the skin once a day. Side effects can include headache and nausea.

Reviewed by:

Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD

Cydnee Ng, PharmD

Last reviewed on April 27, 2026

What is Zoryve (roflumilast)?

What is Zoryve (roflumilast) used for?

Zoryve (roflumilast) cream
- Plaque psoriasis in people 6 years and older - 0.3% cream
- Mild-to-moderate eczema in people 6 years and older - 0.15% cream
- Mild-to-moderate eczema in children 2 to 5 years old - 0.05% cream
Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.3% foam
- Plaque psoriasis on the scalp and body in people 12 years and older
- Seborrheic dermatitis in people 9 years and older

How Zoryve (roflumilast) works

Zoryve (roflumilast) is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. It blocks a protein in the body called PDE4. This protein plays a role in causing inflammation in your skin.

By blocking PDE4, Zoryve (roflumilast) lowers skin inflammation. This helps relieve symptoms of plaque psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis.

Are you looking for information on roflumilast (Daliresp) instead?

When does Zoryve (roflumilast) start working?Time passed since treatment started:

HOURS

DAYS

WEEKS

Full effect

MONTHS

Drug facts

Common Brands	Zoryve
Drug Class	PDE4 inhibitor
Controlled Substance Classification	Not a controlled medication
Generic Status	No lower-cost generic available
Availability	Prescription only

Common Brands

Zoryve

Drug Class

PDE4 inhibitor

Controlled Substance Classification

Not a controlled medication

Generic Status

No lower-cost generic available

Availability

Prescription only

Side effects of Zoryve (roflumilast)

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.05% cream:

Upper respiratory tract infection (4%)
Diarrhea (3%)
Vomiting (2%)
Runny nose (2%)

Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.15% cream:

Headache (3%)
Nausea (2%)

Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.30% cream:

Diarrhea (3%)
Headache (2%)

Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.30% foam:

Headache (3%)
Diarrhea (3%)
Nausea (2%)

Less Common Side Effects

Skin pain where the medication is applied
Trouble sleeping
Nose and throat inflammation
Pink eye

Source: DailyMed

The following Zoryve (roflumilast) side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

Diarrhea
Headache
Irritation at application site
Nausea
Trouble sleeping

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Avg retail price

$1144.16(Save 18.75%)

$929.63

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Pros and cons of Zoryve (roflumilast)

Pros

Steroid-free topical medication
Only applied once a day
Few side effects
Generally safe to use for a long time

Cons

Cream not approved for children under 2 years old with eczema
Foam not approved for children under 9 years old with seborrheic dermatitis
Not safe for people with moderate or severe liver conditions
Not known if it's safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding

Pharmacist tips for Zoryve (roflumilast)

Only apply Zoryve (roflumilast) onto the outside of your body, meaning on your skin. Never put it in your eyes, nose, mouth, vagina, or ears.
To help you remember to use Zoryve (roflumilast) every day, try to apply it around the same time each day. Pick a time that's easy for you to remember, such as first thing in the morning or before bedtime.
Wash your hands after you apply Zoryve (roflumilast), unless you're using it on your hands. Washing your hands afterwards helps you avoid getting the medication in your eyes or mouth.
Tell your prescriber or pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you take. Zoryve (roflumilast) is used on the skin. But it still might interact with some medications. For example, erythromycin or certain hormonal birth control methods might raise your risk of side effects from Zoryve (roflumilast). Your care team can check for drug interactions and help keep you safe.
Store Zoryve (roflumilast) at room temperature. Be sure to keep it out of reach of children and pets.
If you're pregnant: Talk to your prescriber to weigh the risks and benefits of using Zoryve (roflumilast). There isn't enough information to know if the medication is safe to use during pregnancy.
If you're breastfeeding: Discuss with your prescriber about the risks and benefits of using Zoryve (roflumilast). It's not known if it's safe to use while breastfeeding. If they say it's okay, use it on the smallest area of skin for the shortest time needed. Don't apply it directly to your nipple area or areas that might touch your baby's skin.

How to use the Zoryve (roflumilast) cream:

You can use the Zoryve (roflumilast) cream on affected area(s) on your face or body, including skin folds. But avoid getting it in your eyes, mouth, or vagina.
Apply Zoryve (roflumilast) to the affected area(s) of skin. Rub the cream in completely until you don't see it anymore. This helps the medication get absorbed into your skin better.

How to use the Zoryve (roflumilast) foam:

You can use the Zoryve (roflumilast) foam on affected area(s) on your face, body, or scalp. But be careful not to get the medication in your eyes, mouth, or vagina.
Make sure your skin is completely dry before using the Zoryve (roflumilast) foam.
Shake the can of foam each time before you use it. Then, turn the can upside down. Press down on the nozzle to place a small amount of the foam into your hand.
Apply a thin layer of Zoryve (roflumilast) to the affected area(s) of your body or scalp. Fully rub the foam in so it gets absorbed into the skin.
If you need to use the Zoryve (roflumilast) foam for your scalp, part your hair and apply the medication directly onto the affected skin.
Avoid being near fire or lit cigarettes when you apply Zoryve (roflumilast) and right afterwards. The foam is flammable.

Common questions about Zoryve

No, Zoryve isn't a steroid. It's a different type of medication called a PDE4 inhibitor. Like steroids, it helps lower skin inflammation, but it works in a different way. Zoryve also has different side effects than topical steroids. Studies show that it's generally safe to use Zoryve for a long time. But topical steroids are usually recommended to be used for only a few weeks at a time to avoid side effects like skin thinning. Talk to your dermatologist to see which kind of medication is right for you.

No, Zoryve isn't known to cause hair loss. In studies for both the cream and the foam, hair loss wasn't reported as a side effect. If you notice hair thinning while using this medication, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional. They can help find out what's causing it.

No, Zoryve isn't a biologic. A biologic is a medication that comes from a living source, such as proteins. But Zoryve is a chemical that's made in a laboratory.

How fast Zoryve starts to work can be different for everyone. Based on studies, some people with plaque psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis might start to see improvement within the first 2 weeks of treatment. For eczema, some people have had less itchiness as early as a day after they started using Zoryve. Keep in mind that it can take a few months or longer to see the full effects of the medication. Talk to your prescriber or dermatologist if you don't notice any improvement after a few weeks of using Zoryve.

Zoryve might be safe to use on the face. One study showed that using it on the face didn't cause side effects like stinging or thinning of the skin. But in general, try to keep it out of your eyes, nose, and mouth to avoid irritation. Ask your prescriber or dermatologist first before using the medication on your face. You can also use the medication on other affected areas of the body (except in the vagina). For the foam, you can use it on the scalp as well. Ask your care team if you're not sure where to apply Zoryve.

It's not common, but some people have felt stinging, tingling or burning where they applied Zoryve. For most people, this feeling is mild and it doesn't last long. It often happens less often as your skin gets used to the medication. If the burning is intense, causes a severe rash, or doesn't go away, reach out to your care team. They can check if you're having an allergic reaction.

No, there's currently no generic version for either the Zoryve cream or foam. As of March 2026, it's only available as a brand-name medication.

Zoryve and Vtama (tapinarof) both come as creams used once a day on the skin. They can both treat eczema in adults and children ages 2 and older. They can also treat plaque psoriasis. But the Zoryve 0.3% cream is approved for people 6 years and up while Vtama is for adults for that skin condition. Zoryve also comes as a foam for plaque psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis. Talk to your dermatologist to compare and help you decide which medication is right for you.

Risks and warnings for Zoryve (roflumilast)

Zoryve (roflumilast) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

Flammable (foam only)

The foam version of Zoryve (roflumilast) is flammable. This means it can catch on fire easily. Keep the foam can away from flames or lit cigarettes while you're applying the medication and also right after you apply it onto your skin.

Zoryve (roflumilast) dosage

The average cost for 1 tube of 60g of 0.3% of Zoryve (roflumilast) is $0.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 100.00% off the average retail price of $1,144.16.

Can of foam

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
60g of 0.3%	1 can	$0.00	$0.00

Tube of cream

Dosage	Quantity	Price as low as	Price per unit
60g of 0.3%	1 tube	$0.00	$0.00
60g of 0.15%	1 tube	$0.00	$0.00
60g of 0.05%	1 tube	$0.00	$0.00

Typical dosage for Zoryve (roflumilast)

Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) on the skin once daily. Rub the medication in completely.

How much does Zoryve (roflumilast) cost?

To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.

Zoryve (brand)

GoodRx lowest price

$0.00

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Zoryve (roflumilast) contraindications

Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Zoryve (roflumilast) will not be safe for you to take.

Moderate-to-severe liver problems

What are alternatives to Zoryve (roflumilast)?

There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Zoryve (roflumilast). Compare a few possible alternatives below.

Zoryve (roflumilast)

Used for:

Zoryve (roflumilast) cream
- Plaque psoriasis in people 6 years and older - 0.3% cream
- Mild-to-moderate eczema in people 6 years and older - 0.15% cream
- Mild-to-moderate eczema in children 2 to 5 years old - 0.05% cream
Zoryve (roflumilast) 0.3% foam
- Plaque psoriasis on the scalp and body in people 12 years and older
- Seborrheic dermatitis in people 9 years and older

$0.00Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Tacrolimus (Protopic)

Used for:

Moderate-to-severe eczema in adults and children ages 2 years and older

$21.44Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

Calcipotriene

Used for:

Plaque psoriasis - cream, ointment, foam
Scalp psoriasis - foam, solution

$55.41Lowest GoodRx priceView prices

News about Zoryve (roflumilast)

New Psoriasis Medications: 8 Drugs Seeking FDA Approval

Psoriasis treatment is reaching new heights with several drugs in development. Learn more about new potential psoriasis medications in the trial pipeline here.

References

Alexis, A. F., et al. (2025). Long-term safety and efficacy of roflumilast foam 0.3% in patients with seborrheic dermatitis: A phase II, open-label trial of up to 52 weeks. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology.

Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. (2025). Instructions for use: Zoryve® (zor-EEV) (roflumilast) topical foam, 0.3%.

Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. (2025). Patient information: Zoryve® (zor-EEV) (roflumilast) cream.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

What is Zoryve (roflumilast)?

What is Zoryve (roflumilast) used for?

How Zoryve (roflumilast) works

Are you looking for information on roflumilast (Daliresp) instead?

Drug facts

Side effects of Zoryve (roflumilast)

Common Side Effects

Less Common Side Effects

The following Zoryve (roflumilast) side effects have also been reported

Get your GoodRx coupon

Pros and cons of Zoryve (roflumilast)

Pros

Cons

Pharmacist tips for Zoryve (roflumilast)

Common questions about Zoryve

Is Zoryve a steroid?

Does Zoryve cause hair loss?

Is Zoryve a biologic?

How long does Zoryve take to work?

Can you use Zoryve on the face?

Is Zoryve supposed to burn?

Is there a generic for Zoryve?

What's the difference between Vtama and Zoryve?

Risks and warnings for Zoryve (roflumilast)

Flammable (foam only)

Zoryve (roflumilast) dosage

Typical dosage for Zoryve (roflumilast)

How much does Zoryve (roflumilast) cost?

$0.00

Zoryve (roflumilast) contraindications

What are alternatives to Zoryve (roflumilast)?

News about Zoryve (roflumilast)

References

View All References (11)

Common questions about Zoryve

Is Zoryve a steroid?

Does Zoryve cause hair loss?

Is Zoryve a biologic?

How long does Zoryve take to work?

Can you use Zoryve on the face?

Is Zoryve supposed to burn?

Is there a generic for Zoryve?

What's the difference between Vtama and Zoryve?