APREMILAST - ORAL

APREMILAST - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (a-PRE-mi-last)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Otezla

GENERIC NAME(S): apremilast

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat a certain type of arthritis (psoriatic arthritis). Apremilast is also used to treat a certain type of skin condition (moderate to severe plaque psoriasis). Apremilast belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors. For the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, it decreases pain and swelling, and may help improve flexibility in the affected joints. For the treatment of plaque psoriasis, it may help to reduce the redness, thickening, and scaling of the skin that occurs with this condition.


How to use APREMILAST - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. The manufacturer directs not to crush, split, or chew the tablet before taking it. However, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be crushed, split, or chewed. Follow your doctor's directions on how to take this medication. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, headache, or weight loss may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea. Infrequently, people who take this medication may experience depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, or other mental/mood problems. Tell your doctor right away if you or your family/caregiver notice any unusual/sudden changes in your mood, thoughts, or behavior including signs of depression, suicidal thoughts/attempts, thoughts about harming yourself. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking apremilast, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, mental/mood disorders (such as depression). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Other medications can affect the removal of apremilast from your body, which may affect how apremilast works. Examples include certain drugs used to treat seizures (such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone), rifamycins (such as rifampin, rifabutin), among others.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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OTEZLA STARTER PACK

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APR, 10 or 20 or 30
OTEZLA 30 MG TABLET

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APR, 30
OTEZLA 30 MG TABLET

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APR, 30
OTEZLA 28 DAY STARTER PACK

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multi-color (3)
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APR, 10 or 20 or 30

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Faq for APREMILAST - ORAL

Apremilast is an oral medication used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Apremilast works by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4), which plays a role in the inflammatory process. By inhibiting PDE-4, Apremilast helps reduce inflammation, thereby improving symptoms of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Apremilast is primarily used for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis in adult patients.

Apremilast is taken as a tablet, usually twice daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional.

Common side effects of Apremilast may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, weight loss, and upper respiratory tract infections. It is essential to inform your doctor if any side effects persist or worsen.

Apremilast should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. It is not known if Apremilast passes into breast milk, so it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it while breastfeeding.

Apremilast may interact with certain medications, including strong CYP450 enzyme inducers and inhibitors. It is important to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid any potential interactions.

The time it takes for Apremilast to show results varies from person to person. Some individuals may start to see improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks, while others may require several months of treatment. Regular follow-up with a healthcare professional is crucial to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication.

Apremilast is currently approved for use only in adults, and its safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.