Otezla
Prescription
PDE4 Inhibitor
Apremilast Tablets
Manufacturer: Amgen
Description
Otezla is a first-in-class oral PDE4 inhibitor for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It works by increasing intracellular cAMP, which modulates inflammatory cytokine production. Does not require routine blood monitoring unlike methotrexate and cyclosporine.
Active Compounds
No tracked compounds
Indications
- Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Oral ulcers in Behçet's disease
Dosage
Initial titration over 5 days to 30mg twice daily. Maintenance: 30mg twice daily.
Formulations
Full Ingredient List
- Apremilast
- Microcrystalline Cellulose
- Lactose Monohydrate
- Croscarmellose Sodium
- Magnesium Stearate
- Hypromellose
- Titanium Dioxide
- Iron Oxide Red
Side Effects
- Diarrhoea (most common — often transient)
- Nausea
- Headache
- Weight loss
- Depression (monitor mood)
Warnings
- No routine blood monitoring required (advantage)
- Monitor for depression and suicidal ideation
- Weight loss may occur — monitor in underweight patients
- Slow titration over 5 days to reduce GI side effects
- Expensive — may limit use in India