Apremilast (Otezla tablets) is used in order to treat patients with psoriatic arthritis and moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy (treatment of the skin with an ultraviolet light source). Apremilast blocks and resists the production of an enzyme called PDE4 and leads to a reduction in inflammation. Apremilast, a selective inhibitor typically stipulated to patients who have failed one or more disease-modifying drugs (DMARDs) but are not suitable for biologic therapies.
Side effects of apremilast could occur such as diarrhea, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection and headache. When treatment takes place for, couple of weeks, most patients who had symptoms of diarrhea and nausea no longer felt the symptoms without stopping treatment.
Some other adverse effects could appear such as body weight loss and depression. Tell your healthcare provider if you are having any feelings of depression, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal behavior. Your healthcare provider may also have to decide if you should continue to take apremilast dose if significant weight loss occurs.
How should I take apremilast (Aprezo Tablets) :
Apremilast is taken as tablets. They can be taken with or without food.
If you missed a dose, contact your specialist team immediately for advice on when to take the next one.
Warning & Precautions:
Before start the dose of apremilast 30mg, a discussion should be established between you and doctor, about circumstances include:
- If you have kidney problems.
- If you have a history of the heart condition, tachyarrhythmia (fast heartbeat or heart palpitations).
- If you have disease related to heart or congestive heart failure.
- If you have tuberculosis or a viral infection such as viral hepatitis, herpes infection or shingles.
- If you are using immunosuppressive drugs (such as cyclosporine).
- If you have a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts or behaviours.
- If you have low blood pressure or any kind of other medical conditions.
Otezla 30 mg can cause weight loss. Your healthcare provider will need to regularly monitor your weight.
Taking other psoriatic arthritis medication:
You may be taking other disease-modifying drugs as well as apremilast. However, apremilast can interact with some medicines, so converse with your healthcare team or a pharmacist before initiating any new medicines. Remember to mention you’re on apremilast tablets if you’re treated by anyone other than your usual rheumatology team.
You can carry on taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or painkillers, if needed, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Don’t take over-the-counter or herbal medicines without discussing it first with your healthcare provider.
Cost of Apremilast: Apremilast is a low-cost psoriatic arthritis treatment medication, which can be purchased through any certified pharmaceutical firm.
