Apremilast (a-PRE-mi-last)

Treats psoriatic arthritis, plaque psoriasis, and mouth sores caused by Behçet's disease.

Brand Name(s):

Otezla, Otezla Pediatric Initiation Pack, Otezla Starter Pack

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, split, or chew it.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how apremilast works. Tell your doctor if you are using carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, or rifampin.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, low blood pressure, or a history of depression.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting (especially in patients 65 years of age or older)
  • Depression or thoughts of suicide
  • Weight loss
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Feeling sad or depressed
• Fever, chills, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, body aches
• Severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior
• Weight loss

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088