Is Otezla (apremilast) an immunosuppressant?
Otezla is used in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Behçet's Disease as it reduces inflammation
by regulating inflammatory mediators, produced by immune cells.
It does this by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) which modifies the inflammatory response by
- lowering inflammatory mediators
- increasing anti-inflammatory mediators.
This results in reduced inflammation and a reduction in symptoms.
Does Otezla lower immunity?
Otezla is thought to have a greater effect on innate immunity compared to adaptive immunity, with no effect on T-cell or B-cell expansion. This may explain why clinical studies show a lower risk of serious infection.
References
- Apremilast is a selective PDE4 inhibitor with regulatory effects on innate immunity: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0898656814001909
- Psoriasis Pathogenesis and Treatment: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6471628/
- Otezla Medication Information: https://www.drugclasses.com/pro/otezla.html
Read next
Sotyktu vs Otezla: How do they compare?
Sotyktu and Otezla are both oral prescription medicines used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, but they work in different ways. Sotyktu blocks a protein called TYK2 (tyrosine kinase 2) to help lower inflammation and improve the severity and number of psoriasis lesions. Otezla works by blocking the phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) enzyme to lower inflammation. Continue reading
Do you need to take Otezla forever?
Otezla may need to be taken long-term to manage symptoms caused by the chronic conditions it is approved to treat — psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Behçet's disease. But exactly how long it should be taken can vary because it can depend on factors like response, personal preference, and condition severity. Continue reading
How much does Otezla cost?
The cash price of Otezla is around $5096 for a month’s supply of medication (60 tablets) using an online coupon. Your cost will be different based on your pharmacy location, insurance, or any discounts you may have. The manufacturer Amgen offers the Otezla $0 Co-pay Card Program for eligible patients. Continue reading
Related medical questions
- Can you drink alcohol while taking Otezla?
- How long does it take for Otezla to work?
- How to stop taking Otezla?
- What does Otezla do to the body?
- Who makes Otezla and why is it so expensive?
- Does Otezla cause weight gain?
- Is Otezla a biologic? What is Otezla used for?
- Does Otezla cause depression?
- How long has Otezla been on the market?
- Is Otezla safe to take during pregnancy?
- What are the new drugs for plaque psoriasis?
Drug information
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