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Apremilast

Generic name: apremilast [A-PRE mi-last [a-PRE-mi-last]
Name of the brand: Otezla
Dosage format: oral tablet (10 mg-20 mg-30 mg-30 mg)
Drug class: antirheumatics

What is Apremilast?

Apremilast is a PDE4 inhibitor. 4 (PDE4) inhibitor that suppresses the immune system. This helps to reduce inflammation.Apremilast is a treatment for active psoriatic arthritis in adults.Apremilast can also be used for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who could receive phototherapy as well as alternative treatments to treat the condition.Apremilast can also be used for treating mouth ulcers in adults who suffer from Behcet's disease (a condition that causes inflammation of blood vessels).

Warnings

Many people are contemplating suicide when taking Apremilast. Keep an eye on shifts in mood or signs. Be sure to notify your physician of any new or worsening symptoms immediately.

Before you take this drug

Apremilast is not a good choice if you have an allergy to it.

To ensure this medicine is appropriate for you, tell your physician if you've had any of the following:

  • Kidney disease
  • Depression or suicidal ideas or actions

After taking certain medication, there may be instances of individuals contemplating suicide.Your physician will examine your progress every few appointments. Family members or other carers should be aware of changes in your symptoms or mood.Apremilast can cause harm to a baby who is not yet born. Use effective birth control to stop pregnancy and inform your doctor if you're pregnant.If you're expecting and you are a registered mother, your name could be added to the registry for pregnancy to monitor any effects that apremilast has on the baby.It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking this medication. Talk to your doctor regarding any risks.Apremilast is not recommended for use by any person who is younger than

How to take Apremilast?

Use apremilast precisely as prescribed by your physician. Follow the directions on your prescription label, and review all medication guides or instructions sheets. The doctor might modify your dosage.Apremilast can be taken either with or without food.Suck the tablet completely, and don't crush, chew, or break it.Be aware of your body weight when you take this medication. Tell your doctor of any significant reduction in weight.Place it in a cool, dry place free of heat and moisture.

Details on dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Psoriatic Arthritis:

Initial dose:
Day 1:10 mg taken orally at least once per day (AM)
Day 2, 10 mg taken orally twice daily (AM as well as PM)
Day 3: 10 mg orally twice per day (AM) 20 mg orally every day (PM)
Day 4: 20 mg taken orally every day, twice (AM as well as PM).
Day 5: 20 mg orally twice every day (AM) or 30 mg once orally per day (PM)
Maintenance dose: 30 mg daily, twice daily (AM as well as PM).
Notes: This dosage process is designed to lessen the stomach symptoms of the first-time treatment.
Use: Treatment for adult patients suffering from active psoriatic arthritis.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Do not take the medicine for as long as you are able, but do not take any missed doses if you are nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't have two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help Line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.

What should be avoided?

Follow the instructions of your physician regarding any limitations on foods, drinks, or any activity.

Side effects of Apremilast

See a doctor immediately in the event that you exhibit symptoms that you are experiencing an allergic reaction due to the medication. itching and breathing problems, and swelling of your lips, face, or tongue.

Contact your doctor immediately. If you are suffering from:

  • Extreme diarrhoea, nausea, severe diarrhoea, nausea,
  • Unproved weight loss or if you shed significant weight;
  • Mood swings and depression that is worsening, new,
  • The thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself

The most common side effects of apremilast are:

  • Nausea, diarrhoea;
  • Headache
  • Symptoms of the cold, like congestion, sneezing, and a sore throat.

This is not a comprehensive list of possible side effects, and other effects may also be present. Consult your physician for advice regarding medical adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction with other drug

It is sometimes not safe to take certain medicines in combination. Certain medications can alter the blood levels of other medications you are taking, which could create side effects or render the medication less effective.Other medications may interfere with apremilast. These include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.. Discuss with your physician all the medicines you are currently taking as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.

 

DRUG STATUS

Availability

Prescription only

Pregnancy & Lactation

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