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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Otezla (Apremilast) is a prescription medication that is used to treat patients who have moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and oral ulcers associated with Behcet's disease and are suitable candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. It is also approved for the treatment of adults who have active psoriatic arthritis.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | C22H24N2O7S |
License | US DailyMed, EU EMA, US FDA |
Bioavailability | 73% |
Legal status | Rx-Only |
Chemical Name | Apremilast |
Elimination half-life | 6–9 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | 10mg, 20mg, 30mg |
Pregnancy | Consult a healthcare provider |
Brands | Otezla |
Protein binding | 73% |
PubChem CID | 11561674 |
MedlinePlus | a614022 |
ChEBI | 78540 |
ATC code | L04AA32 |
DrugBank | DB05676 |
KEGG | D08860 |
Routes of administration | By mouth (tablets) |
Take this medication as instructed by your doctor, twice daily with or without food. The tablet should not be crushed, chewed, or split.
Otezla uses Apremilast as the active ingredient.
Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Apremilast.
If you have a medical history of kidney disease or mood disorders, tell your doctor before starting on Otezla.
Unexplained weight loss is possible when taking this medication.
If you are pregnant, it is recommended to use this medication only if it is clearly necessary.
Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication.
Certain medications like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, and rifabutin can impact how Apremilast is eliminated from your body. This can affect how well Otezla works. It's important to inform your doctor about all the medications you're taking to ensure Otezla functions properly.
Common adverse effects of Otezla include upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, nausea, and tension headaches. More severe side effects include sudden changes in mood, depression, and thoughts of self-harm. If you suffer from any of these, speak with your doctor right away.
There may be other side effects not mentioned here. Before you buy Otezla, it is important to consult your doctor regarding any additional potential side effects.
Is Otezla a biologic?
No, Otezla is not a biologic. It is an oral medication used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis by regulating inflammation in the body. Unlike biologics, Otezla is a small molecule drug taken in tablet form.
Is Otezla an immunosuppressant?
Yes, Otezla is an immunosuppressant. It helps reduce inflammation in the body by suppressing the immune system.
How long does it take for Otezla to work?
The time it takes for Otezla to work varies, but it generally takes a few weeks to a few months to see significant improvement.
Is Otezla a steroid?
No, Otezla is not a steroid. It is not classified as a corticosteroid or anabolic steroid. Otezla is an oral medication that works as an immunosuppressant by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4).
Do you take Otezla forever?
The duration of Otezla treatment varies, but it is typically used as a long-term treatment for chronic conditions like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.