Apremilast (Otezla)

What is apremilast?

Apremilast (Otezla) is an oral medication used in dermatology and related specialties for inflammatory conditions such as plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is also used for oral ulcers associated with Behçet disease.

In dermatology, it is often considered when a patient needs something beyond topical treatment (like topical steroids) but wants to avoid biologic injections and may prefer an oral option with a different type of safety profile than many immunosuppressive medications.

How does apremilast work?

Apremilast works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase-4, often shortened to PDE4. This helps reduce inflammatory signaling in the body.

What are possible side effects of apremilast?

Possible side effects can include:

  • Diarrhea or nausea, especially early in treatment

  • Headache

  • Reduced appetite or weight loss in some patients

  • Mood changes in selected patients

Because of these possibilities, your provider may review gastrointestinal tolerance, weight trends, and mood history when discussing whether apremilast is a good fit.

How is apremilast used?

Apremilast is taken by mouth on a schedule directed by your provider. It is usually started in a way that helps patients adjust gradually to treatment.

For psoriasis, it is often used in patients who are candidates for systemic therapy but want an oral non-injection option. For Behçet disease, it may be used for recurrent oral ulcers in the right clinical setting.

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