Apremilast

 

What is Apremilast?

Apremilast is a targeted disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) that is used to reduce inflammation produced by the body. In certain diseases the immune system is over active, this can target healthy tissues such as joints and the skin. Apremilast works on molecules called enzymes in the inflammatory pathway, reducing the symptoms you get from arthritis such as pain and joint swelling and reduces the chance of further damage to the joints.

 

What is Apremilast used for?

Apremilast is used for the treatment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic arthritis.

 

How is it taken?

Apremilast is a tablet that is taken twice a day. It is started at a low dose and increased up each day for the first 6 days as below:

 

Day 1- 10mg once a day

Day 2- 10mg twice a day

Day 3- 10mg in the morning and 20mg in the evening

Day 4- 20mg twice a day

Day 5- 20mg in the morning and 30mg in the evening

Day 6 onwards- 30mg twice a day

 

If you miss a dose, you should try to take it as soon as possible, however if it is close to the next time a dose is due, you should skip the missed dose.

 

Apremilast is usually given alongside other DMARDs such as methotrexate, or it can be taken on its own.

 

The tablets are supplied by the hospital pharmacy, a repeat prescription will be set up so you can collect them every 1-3 months.

 

The medication can take up to 12 weeks to have an effect. There are no requirements to monitor your bloods on apremilast; however if you are also on another medication such as methotrexate, you will need to continue your blood monitoring for this.

 

Side effects

There are a few possible side effects that can occur in a small number of people that take apremilast, these include:

 

 

Cautions of use

Interactions with other medications

Contraindications of other conditions

Operations

During pregnancy and breastfeeding

Alcohol

Vaccinations

 

Useful Links

Versus Arthritis: http://www.versusarthritis.org