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Drug

Apremilast

Pronounced

"a-PRE-mi-last"

Uses

This medication is used to treat a certain type of arthritis (psoriatic arthritis). Apremilast is also used to treat a certain type of skin condition (moderate to severe plaque psoriasis). Apremilast belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors. For the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, it decreases pain and swelling, and may help improve flexibility in the affected joints. For the treatment of plaque psoriasis, it may help to reduce the redness, thickening, and scaling of the skin that occurs with this condition.

Apremilast is also used to treat mouth sores in people who have Behcet's disease. It helps to reduce the pain and improve the healing of these mouth sores.

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, split, or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight.

To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Apremilast is also available in another formulation (immediate-release tablets). Do not switch between different forms of apremilast unless your doctor tells you to.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

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Information expires December 2026.