Does Otezla cause weight gain?
No, Otezla does not cause weight gain, in fact, it is more likely to cause weight loss. In a pooled analysis of two large trials, ESTEEM 1 and ESTEEM 2, the average change in weight from the start of the trial to week 16 was -1.51 kg, or -3.33 lb for patients receiving Otezla 30mg twice daily. By week 52, approximately 19% of patients had lost more than 5% of their starting weight. Nobody described their weight loss as serious although two patients discontinued treatment because of weight loss.
The exact mechanism for weight loss with Otezla has not been determined, but no association has been found between weight loss and diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, but it may be related to the phosphodiesterase (PDE4) inhibitory activity of Otezla. Patients treated with Otezla should have their weight monitored regularly and discontinuation of Otezla may need to be considered If unexplained or clinically significant weight loss occurs.
Otezla is a PDE4 inhibitor that may be used to treat adults with plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and oral ulcers associated with Behçet’s Disease. It can also be given to children 6 years of age and older, weighing at least 20 kg, with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy.
References
- Otezla (apremilast) Updated 04/2024. Amgen Inc. https://www.pi.amgen.com/-/media/Project/Amgen/Repository/pi-amgen-com/Otezla/otezla_pi_english.pdf
- Reich k, Sobell J, Stevens R, et al. Change in weight with apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor: Pooled analysis of the ESTEEM 1 and ESTEEM 2 trials. Psoriasis and other papulosquamous disorders. 2015:72(5) Suppl 1. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2015.02.920
Read next
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Sotyktu vs Otezla: How do they compare?
Sotyktu and Otezla are both oral prescription medicines used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, but they work in different ways. Sotyktu blocks a protein called TYK2 (tyrosine kinase 2) to help lower inflammation and improve the severity and number of psoriasis lesions. Otezla works by blocking the phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) enzyme to lower inflammation. Continue reading
How much does Otezla cost?
The cash price of Otezla is around $5096 for a month’s supply of medication (60 tablets) using an online coupon. Your cost will be different based on your pharmacy location, insurance, or any discounts you may have. The manufacturer Amgen offers the Otezla $0 Co-pay Card Program for eligible patients. Continue reading
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Drug information
- Otezla Information for Consumers
- Otezla prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Otezla (detailed)
- Otezla user reviews (439)
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