Otezla (Apremilast)

Do’s

• Otezla is taken orally in tablet form, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare provider, usually twice daily. 
• The dosage of Otezla is individualized based on the patient's medical condition and their response to treatment. To minimize the risk of side effects, your healthcare provider may recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it as directed.
• Use Otezla regularly as prescribed to achieve the maximum benefits. Taking it at the same times each day can help in ensuring consistent treatment.
• Inform your healthcare provider if there is no improvement in your condition or if it worsens while taking Otezla.

Don’ts

• The tablets should not be crushed, split, or chewed before ingestion.

Common and Mild Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat 

Mild side effects are usually temporary and may improve after a few weeks of treatment.

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Mood changes
• New or worsening depression
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• Allergic reactions 

Severe allergic reactions may manifest as trouble breathing or swallowing, raised bumps (hives), rash or itching, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or arms.

Inform your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.

Hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema and anaphylaxis, have been reported during postmarketing surveillance. If signs or symptoms of serious hypersensitivity reactions occur, discontinue Otezla and seek appropriate medical therapy.

Otezla is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to apremilast or to any of the excipients in the formulation.

Certain medications may interact with Otezla. Inform the healthcare provider about all current medicines and any new medications being started or stopped. Specific interactions with medications such as carbamazepine, enzalutamide, fosphenytoin, and mitotane may require dose adjustments or other precautions.

Otezla has not been studied in pregnant women. Therefore, it's essential to advise pregnant women of the potential risk of fetal loss and to consult a healthcare provider before using Otezla if pregnant or planning to become pregnant.