Otezla is a medication used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, which are chronic autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation and skin irritation. This medication is a selective inhibitor of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), which is involved in the regulation of immune cell activity.
Otezla works by blocking PDE4, which in turn helps to reduce the activity of immune cells that are involved in the inflammatory response. This results in a reduction in inflammation, which is the underlying cause of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
One of the benefits of Otezla is that it is an oral medication, which means that it can be taken by mouth rather than through injections or infusions. This can be more convenient for patients who may not be comfortable with needles or who prefer to take their medication at home rather than in a clinical setting.
Otezla has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis symptoms, including skin scaling, redness, and joint pain. In clinical trials, Otezla has been shown to produce significant improvements in these symptoms compared to placebo.
However, like all medications, Otezla can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Otezla include nausea, diarrhea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection. Less commonly, Otezla can cause more serious side effects such as depression, suicidal thoughts, or weight loss.
Before taking Otezla, patients should inform their doctor if they have a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or other mental health conditions. Otezla is not recommended for use in patients with severe liver or kidney disease, or in patients who are taking certain medications that can interact with Otezla.
In conclusion, Otezla is a medication that has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It works by blocking the activity of immune cells that cause inflammation, which can help to reduce symptoms such as skin scaling, redness, and joint pain. While Otezla is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects, and patients should inform their doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions or medications they are taking before beginning treatment.
