Apremilast
Generic name: apremilast [ a-PRE-mi-last ]
Brand name: Otezla
Dosage form: oral tablet (10 mg-20 mg-30 mg; 30 mg)
Drug class:Antirheumatics
What is apremilast?
Apremilast is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that works to suppress the immune system, which reduces inflammation.
Apremilast is used to treat active psoriatic arthritis in adults.
Apremilast is also used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who may also receive phototherapy or other treatments for psoriasis.
Apremilast is also used to treat mouth ulcers in adults with Behçet's disease (a disease causing inflammation in blood vessels).
Warnings
Some people have thoughts about suicide while taking apremilast. 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 apremilast if you are allergic to it.
To make sure this medicine 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 apremilast. 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 you become pregnant.
If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of apremilast on the baby.
It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Apremilast is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take apremilast?
Take apremilast exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
You may take apremilast with or without food.
Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.
Keep track of your body weight while you are taking this medicine, and tell your doctor about any major weight loss.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Psoriatic Arthritis:
Initial dose:
-Day 1: 10 mg orally once a day (AM)
-Day 2: 10 mg orally twice a day (AM and PM)
-Day 3: 10 mg orally once a day (AM); 20 mg orally once a day (PM)
