Otezia is a medicine that contains apremilast, a substance that blocks the action of an enzyme, called phosphodiesterase 4, which produces molecules of the immune system involved in the inflammation processes that cause psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, which allows to relieve the symptoms of these diseases.
This remedy can be purchased in conventional pharmacies with a prescription, in the form of tablets with 10, 20 or 30 mg of apremilast.
What is it for
Otezia is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis, which did not respond to treatment with other types of medication.
How to take
The recommended dose is 30 mg twice a day, in the morning and at night with an interval of 12 hours, without the need to eat.
However, to start using this medication, the following scheme must be followed:
| Morning | Afternoon | |
| Day 1 | 10 mg | --- |
| Day 2 | 10 mg | 10 mg |
| Day 3 | 10 mg | 20 mg |
| Day 4 | 20 mg | 20 mg |
| Day 5 | 20 mg | 30 mg |
| Day 6 and following | 30 mg | 30 mg |
If a dose is missed, it is recommended to take the next dose as soon as possible. If the time for the next dose is close, wait for the usual time.
Main side effects
Some of the most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea and headache, especially during the first 4 weeks after starting treatment.
Who should not take
Otezia should not be used by pregnant women, breastfeeding women and people with allergies to apremilast or any other component of the formula.
