Apremilast
Generic Details
Generic Name
Apremilast
Other Names
- Otezla
Drug Class
- Phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4) Inhibitor
Chemical Formula
C22H24N2O7
Molecular Weight
460.436 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits the enzyme phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE-4), leading to decreased production of pro-inflammatory mediators
Indications
- Treatment of psoriasis
- Treatment of psoriatic arthritis
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral tablet
Typical Dosage
- 30 mg twice daily
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Adjust dosage based on renal function
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Upper respiratory tract infection
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to apremilast
Pregnancy Category
- Category C
Lactation Safety
- Not recommended
Drug Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inducers/inhibitors may alter apremilast levels
Overdose Symptoms
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Antidote for Overdose
- Symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (20-25°C)
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration
- Distribution: Highly distributed in tissues
- Metabolism: Primarily metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites
- Excretion: Mainly excreted in urine
Precautions
- Monitor for mood changes and depression
Warnings
- Increase in depression and suicidal thoughts reported