How long does it take to complete effective treatment with Apremilast (Otelor) tablets?

Apremilast is an oral small molecule phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor, mainly used to treat patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It inhibits PDE4 activity and increases intracellular cAMP levels, thereby regulating the balance of inflammatory mediators, reducing inflammatory reactions and improving skin and joint symptoms. The onset time of therapeutic effect is closely related to the severity of the patient's condition, medication compliance, and individual metabolic differences.

Clinical studies have shown that most patients can observe early signs of symptom improvement within about 4 weeks of continuous oral administration, such as reduction of skin itching, reduction of erythema, or relief of joint pain. This stage mainly evaluates the efficacy through clinical symptoms and patient self-report, providing a reference for subsequent dose maintenance and treatment course adjustment. Patients who respond better early often also tolerate longer courses of therapy better.

With the extension of the course of treatment, usually 12-16 weeks can achieve more obvious and stable effects. In patients with psoriasis, it can be seen that the rash is significantly reduced, the scales are reduced, and the quality of life is improved; patients with psoriatic arthritis show relief of joint pain and swelling, and improved range of motion. At this stage, doctors usually combine clinical signs, patient subjective symptoms and necessary imaging examinations to evaluate whether the efficacy has met expectations, and decide whether to continue to maintain the dose or adjust the regimen.

Long-term maintenance treatment usually requires 6 months or more to consolidate the efficacy and prevent disease recurrence. Skin and joint symptoms, inflammatory indicators and adverse reactions should be comprehensively evaluated before the treatment course is completed or adjusted. Apremilast is generally well tolerated, but weight, mood, and gastrointestinal reactions need to be monitored regularly. Through standardized treatment course management and individualized dose adjustment, most patients can obtain lasting effects, relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Reference materials:https://www.drugs.com/