Generic name:apremilast [ a-PRE-mi-last ]
Drug class:Antirheumatics
What is Otezla?
Otezla inhibits an enzyme within your immune system that can affect certain cells and contribute to inflammation in the body.
Otezla is used to treat active psoriatic arthritis in adults.
Otezla is also used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who may also receive phototherapy or other treatments for psoriasis.
Otezla is also used to treat mouth ulcers in adults with Behçet's disease (a disease causing inflammation in blood vessels).
Warnings
When using Otezla your weight should be monitored regularly. Any unexplained or significant weight loss should be reported to your health care provider.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Otezla. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Otezla if you are allergic to apremilast.
To make sure Otezla is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease; or
depression or suicidal thoughts or actions.
Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking Otezla. Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits. Your family or other caregivers should also be alert to changes in your mood or symptoms.
Apremilast may harm an unborn baby. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy, and tell your doctor if...
