Observation on the clinical effect of Apremilast (Otelor) on improving joint function

The joint improvement effect of Apremilast in patients with psoriatic arthritis has been confirmed by multiple clinical studies. It mainly inhibits PDE4 and reduces the levels of inflammatory mediators, thereby reducing joint pain, stiffness and swelling. In actual treatment, many patients can feel joint pain relief 2～4 weeks after taking the medicine, and more obvious improvement usually occurs in 12～16 In about a week, inflammation is continuously suppressed at this stage, the burden on the joints is reduced, and the patient's mobility is also improved. This gradual onset but stable and sustained effect makes Apremilast one of the treatment options suitable for long-term management of psoriatic arthritis.

Judging from clinical trial data, Apremilast has a statistically significant effect in improving joint function. The multicenter III study showed that at 16 weeks, approximately 30% of patients treated with Apremilast achieved ACR20 (joint symptoms improved at least. 20%), as the treatment time prolongs, the proportion of patients reaching ACR50 and ACR70 also gradually increases. This shows that Apremilast can not only reduce joint pain and the number of tender points, but also effectively improve the number of swollen joints and reduce morning stiffness. For patients with mild to moderate arthritis or those who cannot tolerate traditional DMARD , Apremilast is considered a safe and highly compliant long-term treatment option.

In terms of joint mobility and improvement of daily functions, Apremilast also performs well. Studies have shown that patients taking the drug saw a significant decrease in their scores on the HAQ-DI (Health Assessment Questionnaire Functional Index), indicating that it can help patients regain their daily activities, including grip strength, hand dexterity, walking ability and smoothness of daily movements. Since Apremilast is an oral drug that does not require injection and does not have the risk of serious infection common with immunosuppressants, in actual use, patients can take the drug stably for a long time, thus improving overall joint function.

Long-term follow-up data show that patients who continue to use Apremilast can continue to control their joint inflammation and significantly slow down the progression of structural joint damage for one year or more. Many patients report that after long-term stable treatment, joint mobility improves, exercise capacity improves, and quality of life also significantly improves. Taken together, Apremilast has shown reliable efficacy in joint pain control, functional recovery and reduction of disease activity. For patients with psoriatic arthritis who require long-term management, it is a treatment option that takes into account efficacy, safety and convenience.

Reference materials:https://www.nlm.nih.gov/