Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s characterized by red, scaly patches of skin that can be itchy and painful.

While there are many treatments available for psoriasis, not all of them work for everyone. However, apremilast is a new treatment that has shown promising results in clinical trials.

What is Apremilast?

Apremilast is a medication that works by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4). PDE4 is involved in the inflammation that causes psoriasis, so by inhibiting it, apremilast reduces inflammation and improves symptoms.

How is Apremilast Taken?

Apremilast is taken orally, usually twice a day. It comes in tablet form and should be taken with food to improve absorption. It’s important to take apremilast as directed by your doctor, and not to stop taking it without their advice.

What Are the Side Effects of Apremilast?

Like any medication, apremilast can cause side effects. The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection. These side effects are generally mild to moderate in severity and usually resolve on their own.

However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should contact your doctor.

What Are the Benefits of Apremilast for Psoriasis?

Apremilast has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis. In clinical trials, patients who took apremilast experienced significant improvements in their skin symptoms, including redness, scaling, and itching.

Apremilast is also well-tolerated and has a low risk of serious side effects.

Who Can Take Apremilast?

Apremilast is approved for use in adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. It’s also approved for use in adults with psoriatic arthritis.

However, it’s important to note that not everyone is a candidate for apremilast. Your doctor will determine whether or not it’s appropriate for you based on your medical history, current medications, and other factors.

Is Apremilast Effective for All Types of Psoriasis?

Apremilast has been primarily studied in patients with plaque psoriasis, which is the most common type of psoriasis. However, it may also be effective in other types of psoriasis, such as guttate psoriasis or inverse psoriasis.

More research is needed to determine the effectiveness of apremilast in these conditions.

Is Apremilast Expensive?

Apremilast is a relatively expensive medication, with a monthly cost of around $3,000-$4,000.

However, many insurance plans cover the cost of apremilast, and there are also financial assistance programs available to help offset the cost for eligible patients.

What Should I Do If Apremilast Doesn’t Work for Me?

If apremilast doesn’t work for you, there are several other treatments available for psoriasis. Your doctor may recommend topical creams or ointments, phototherapy, or systemic medications such as biologics.

It’s important to work with your doctor to find the most effective treatment for your individual needs.

Conclusion

Apremilast is a promising new treatment for psoriasis that has shown significant improvements in clinical trials.

While it’s not effective for everyone, it may be a good option for those who have not responded to other treatments or who prefer oral medications. If you’re interested in apremilast, talk to your doctor to find out if it’s right for you.