Otezla Side Effects
Generic name: apremilast
Note: This document contains side effect information about apremilast. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Otezla.
Applies to apremilast: oral tablet.
Serious side effects of Otezla
Along with its needed effects, apremilast (the active ingredient contained in Otezla) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking apremilast:
Rare
- Changes in behavior
- discouragement
- feeling sad or empty
- irritability
- lack of appetite
- loss of interest or pleasure
- thoughts of killing oneself
- tiredness
- trouble concentrating
- trouble sleeping
Incidence not known
- Cough
- chest tightness
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- fever
- hives, itching, or rash
- hoarseness
- irritation
- joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
- large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
- puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- redness of the skin
- swelling of the hands or feet
- trouble breathing or swallowing
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- weight loss
Other side effects of Otezla
Some side effects of apremilast may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
More common
- Body aches or pain
- chills
- diarrhea
- ear congestion
- headache
- loss of voice
- nausea
- sneezing
- sore throat
- stuffy or runny nose
Less common
- Back pain
- belching
- burning, itching, pain in the hairy areas, pus at the root of the hair
- decreased appetite
- heartburn
- indigestion
- muscle aches
- stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
- upper abdominal or stomach pain
- vomiting
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to apremilast: oral tablet.
General
The most commonly reported side effects included diarrhea, headache, and nausea.[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Common (1% to 10%): Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain
Frequency not reported: Frequent bowel movement, gastroesophageal reflux disease, dyspepsia[Ref]
Respiratory
Common (1% to 10%): Upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis
Frequency not reported: Cough[Ref]
Dermatologic
Frequency not reported: Rash[Ref]
Metabolic
Frequency not reported: Weight decrease, decreased appetite[Ref]
Nervous system
Common (1% to 10%): Headache
Frequency not reported: Migraine[Ref]
Frequently asked questions
- Sotyktu vs Otezla: How do they compare?
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- How much does Otezla cost?
- How to stop taking Otezla?
- Who makes Otezla and why is it so expensive?
- Does Otezla cause weight gain?
- Is Otezla a biologic? What is Otezla used for?
- Does Otezla cause depression?
More about Otezla (apremilast)
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References
1. Product Information. Otezla (apremilast). Celgene Corporation. 2014.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.
