Description
Otezla (apremilast) is an oral tablet taken by adults who have active psoriatic arthritis, plaque psoriasis and are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy, and oral ulcers related to Behçet’s Disease.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C22H24N2O7S |
License |
US DailyMed, EU EMA, US FDA |
Bioavailability |
73% |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Apremilast |
Elimination half-life |
6–9 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
10mg, 20mg, 30mg |
Pregnancy |
Consult Doctor |
Brands |
Otezla |
Protein binding |
73% |
PubChem CID |
11561674 |
MedlinePlus |
a614022 |
ChEBI |
78540 |
ATC code |
L04AA32 |
DrugBank |
DB05676 |
KEGG |
D08860 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth (tablets) |
Directions
The instructions that come with your Otezla prescription should be followed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.
Oteza comes in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg tablets.
Because Otezla can cause gastrointestinal problems, it is recommended to steadily titrate Otezla until a dose of 30 mg by mouth two times a day is reached according to the suggested schedule:
Day 1: 10 mg by mouth in the morning
Day 2: 10 mg by mouth in the morning and 10 mg by mouth in the evening
Day 3: 10 mg by mouth in the morning and 20 mg by mouth in the evening
Day 4: 20 mg by mouth in the morning and 20 mg by mouth in the evening
Day 5: 20 mg by mouth in the morning and 30 mg by mouth in the evening
Day 6 and thereafter: 30 mg by mouth two times a day
The dose may be adjusted based on kidney function.
Ingredients
Apremilast, a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor, is the active ingredient in each Otezla tablet. The inactive ingredients include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate, polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide, polyethylene glycol, talc, and iron oxide red. The 20 mg and 30 mg tablets also contain iron oxide yellow. The 30 mg tablet also contains iron oxide black.
Contraindications
Do not take Oteza if you are allergic to apremilast or to any of the other ingredients or excipients contained in Otezla tablets.
Cautions
- Before you start treatment with Otezla, be sure to inform your doctor of:
- All the medications you take
- Your allergies
- Your medical history and current medical conditions
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Otezla can cause allergic reactions that may be severe. Seek emergency care immediately if you have a rash, a rapid heart rate, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Otezla can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
- Otezla can cause mood changes, including depression and suicidal thoughts. Patients, their families, or their caregivers should report any mood changes to the patient's doctor.
- Otezla can cause weight loss. You should monitor your weight regularly.
- Taking Otezla with strong cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers can cause the medication not to work as well. Ask your doctor if you are unsure whether or not you take cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers.
Side Effects
The most common Otezla side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection; however, these are not all the side effects that can occur with the use of Otezla. Contact your doctor immediately if you have bothersome or persistent side effects.
Reference:
Otezla (apremilast) tablets, for oral use. Thousand Oaks, CA: Amgen Inc.; 2021.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 13206