OTEZLA (Apremilast) - Ships From USA

What is this medication?

OTEZLA (Apremilast)
Phosphodiesterase-4 Enzyme Inhibitor

OTEZLA (Apremilast) is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) and is used for the  treatment of active psoriatic arthritis and moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

How does this medication work?

OTEZLA (Apremilast) is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) and works intracellularly to modulate a network of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators.  Phosphodiesterase 4 inhibition elevates intracellular cAMP levels, thereby reducing the inflammatory response by modulating the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-23 (IL-23), IL-17 and IL-10.

How should I take this medication?

Bechet Disease
Oral: Take 10 mg in the morning on day 1. Titrate upward by additional 10 mg per day on days 2 to 5 as follows: Day 2: 10 mg twice daily; Day 3: 10 mg in the morning and 20 mg in the evening; Day 4: 20 mg twice daily; Day 5: 20 mg in the morning and 30 mg in the evening. Maintenance dose: 30 mg twice daily starting on day 6.

Psoriasis
Oral: Take 10 mg in the morning on day 1. Titrate upward by additional 10 mg per day on days 2 to 5 as follows: Day 2: 10 mg twice daily; Day 3: 10 mg in the morning and 20 mg in the evening; Day 4: 20 mg twice daily; Day 5: 20 mg in the morning and 30 mg in the evening. Maintenance dose: 30 mg twice daily starting on day 6.

Psoriatic Arthritis
Oral: Take 10 mg in the morning on day 1. Titrate upward by additional 10 mg per day on days 2 to 5 as follows: Day 2: 10 mg twice daily; Day 3: 10 mg in the morning and 20 mg in the evening; Day 4: 20 mg twice daily; Day 5: 20 mg in the morning and 30 mg in the evening. Maintenance dose: 30 mg twice daily starting on day 6.

How to Take: Can be taken with/without food.  Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting OTEZLA (Apremilast), make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Apremilast, use has been associated with several adverse effects including diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.  Consider reducing the dose or holding Apremilast if you develop severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.  Apremilast should be used with caution if you have a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts. Apremilast may cause weight loss, monitor weight regularly. Discontinuation of therapy should be considered with unexplained or significant weight loss.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Diarrhea, nausea, headache, weight loss, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, cough, rash.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for OTEZLA (Apremilast), only common ones.