Otezla (Apremilast)

Save over 90% with the generic version of Otezla.

Otezla reduces inflammation by its active ingredient apremilast’.  Otezla is a phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor, reducing the activity of this specific enzyme thus controlling inflammation.

Otezla is used to treat psoriatic arthritis and moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.  There is no cure for these conditions, however Otezla can control the symptoms.

Otezla is taken twice daily, beginning with a lower dose and increasing your dose to the most effective levels, usually 30mg twice per day.

Information about Otezla (Apremilast)

Otezla is a medication that contains apremilast, a selective phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. It is used to treat certain inflammatory conditions by modulating the immune system. Apremilast works by increasing the levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP) within cells, which helps regulate the production of inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing inflammation. Otezla is often prescribed to manage autoimmune conditions like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Product Highlights

• Otezla is primarily indicated for:
• For the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy.
• Used to treat active psoriatic arthritis in adults, either alone or in combination with other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
• Otezla is also used for the treatment of oral ulcers associated with Behçet’s disease in adults.

Key Ingredient

• Apremilast

Key Benefits

• Otezla significantly reduces symptoms of psoriasis (such as plaques and scaling) and psoriatic arthritis (including joint pain and swelling), helping to improve both skin and joint health.
• Unlike many biologic therapies that require injections or infusions, Otezla is an oral tablet, making it easier to administer and more convenient for patients.
• Otezla is less likely to increase the risk of infections compared to traditional immunosuppressive therapies, as it does not broadly suppress the immune system.
• While Otezla can cause gastrointestinal issues and mood changes, its safety profile is generally considered more favorable than many other systemic therapies for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
• Otezla is useful for treating both the skin manifestations of psoriasis and the joint involvement seen in psoriatic arthritis.

Direction of Use

• The typical starting dose for Otezla is 10 mg once daily, which is gradually increased over a 5-day period to 30 mg twice daily. The full dose should be taken as prescribed.
• Take Otezla tablets with or without food. Take the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets.
• For optimal results, it is important to take Otezla at the same time each day, consistently adhering to the prescribed dosing schedule.

Safety Concerns

• Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, particularly when starting the medication. These symptoms typically subside within the first few weeks of treatment.
• Apremilast has been associated with mood changes, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts or behavior. Patients should be monitored for any signs of depression or mood swings.
• Some patients may experience weight loss while on Otezla. Regular monitoring of weight and nutrition is recommended, especially in patients with pre-existing weight concerns.
• Although Otezla is not a broad immunosuppressant, any treatment for inflammatory conditions can potentially increase susceptibility to infections. Patients should be monitored for any signs of infection.
• Apremilast may interact with other medications, particularly those that affect the CYP450 enzyme system. It's important to inform healthcare providers about any other medications being taken, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Avoid Otezla (Apremilast) If

• Due to the risk of mood changes, including depression and suicidal thoughts, Otezla should be avoided in patients with a history of severe depression or suicidal behavior.
• Given the potential for gastrointestinal side effects (e.g., diarrhea, nausea), patients with a history of severe gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may need to avoid Otezla or use it cautiously.
• If you are allergic to apremilast or any of its ingredients, you should avoid using Otezla.
• There is limited information on the safety of Otezla during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits exceed the possible risks to the fetus. It is unknown if Otezla passes into breast milk, so caution is advised.
• Otezla is metabolized in the liver, so patients with severe liver impairment should avoid using this medication unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks, and only under close medical supervision.