Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder that affects millions of people around the world. It is a non-contagious skin condition that causes the skin to become red, scaly and itchy.

While there is no cure for psoriasis, there are several treatments that can relieve symptoms and potentially reduce the severity of the condition. One such treatment is Apremilast, a medication that has been proven to be highly effective in the treatment of psoriasis.

How Apremilast Works

Apremilast is a type of medication known as a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. It works by inhibiting the action of PDE4, an enzyme that breaks down cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP).

cAMP is an important molecule that regulates various cellular processes, including inflammation and immune response. By inhibiting PDE4 and increasing cAMP levels, Apremilast helps to reduce inflammation and improve immune system function, both of which are key factors in the development of psoriasis.

Benefits of Apremilast

There are several potential benefits of using Apremilast for the treatment of psoriasis, including:.

1. Reduced Inflammation

Psoriasis is characterized by high levels of inflammation in the skin. This inflammation results in the redness, swelling and itching that are common symptoms of the condition.

Apremilast helps to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the action of PDE4, which in turn increases cAMP levels. This leads to a reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, which are key mediators of inflammation in psoriasis.

2. Improved Immune System Function

The immune system plays a key role in the development of psoriasis. In people with psoriasis, immune cells called T cells become activated and produce large amounts of cytokines, which promote inflammation and trigger the overproduction of skin cells.

Apremilast helps to improve immune system function by inhibiting PDE4 and increasing cAMP levels, which can ultimately lead to a reduction in T cell activation and cytokine production. This, in turn, can help to reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms.

3. Safe and Effective Treatment Option

Apremilast has been extensively studied in clinical trials and has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for psoriasis.

In fact, in clinical trials, over 50% of patients treated with Apremilast achieved a 75% reduction in their Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score, which is a measure of the severity of psoriasis symptoms. Apremilast has also been shown to be well-tolerated by patients, with a low incidence of side effects.

4. Oral Administration

Apremilast is taken orally, in the form of a pill, making it a convenient treatment option for patients.

Unlike other psoriasis treatments, such as biologics, which are administered via injection or infusion, Apremilast can be taken at home without the need for frequent visits to a healthcare provider.

5. Suitable for Various Types of Psoriasis

Apremilast has been shown to be effective in treating various types of psoriasis, including plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. This makes it a versatile treatment option for patients with different forms of the condition.

Potential Side Effects of Apremilast

While Apremilast is generally well-tolerated by patients, it can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection.

In rare cases, Apremilast can cause severe allergic reactions or suicidal thoughts. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of Apremilast before starting treatment.

Conclusion

Apremilast is a highly effective and safe treatment option for people with psoriasis. It works by reducing inflammation and improving immune system function in the skin, ultimately leading to a reduction in psoriasis symptoms.

While Apremilast can cause side effects in some people, it is generally well-tolerated and can be taken orally, making it a convenient treatment option for patients. If you are struggling with psoriasis symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about whether Apremilast may be a suitable treatment option for you.