Detailed analysis of the indications and disease range of Apremilast (Otelac)

Apremilast (Apremilast) is an oral small molecule phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. It mainly modulates the intracellular cAMP levels to regulate the production of inflammatory mediators and reduce the inflammatory response. Its pharmacological characteristics give it therapeutic potential in a variety of inflammation-related diseases. By inhibiting PDE4, apremilast can downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-17and IL-23, while upregulating the anti-inflammatory factor IL-10, thus playing an important role in immune regulation and inflammation control.

Apremilast is mainly used clinically to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. For patients who are not candidates for systemic immunosuppressants or biologics, apremilast offers the convenience of oral therapy. Clinical studies have shown that the drug can significantly improve Psoriasis Severity Index (PASI) scores and maintain efficacy over long-term use. Its advantages also include that side effects are relatively controllable, no regular laboratory monitoring is required, and it is suitable for long-term outpatient management.

In addition, apremilast is approved for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis. By inhibitingPDE4 and regulating inflammatory pathways, it can improve joint pain, stiffness and swelling, and slow down the process of joint structural damage. In patients with mild or moderate joint symptoms, apremilast is often used as first or alternative therapy, especially for patients who are unwilling to receive injectable biologics or have specific contraindications.

In addition to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, apremilast also has research and exploration value in other inflammatory diseases, such as atopic dermatitis, Behçet disease and chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Although some indications are still in the clinical trial stage, the drug's modulating effect on the immune system provides it with potentially broad application prospects in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Overall, apremilast provides a safe, controllable, long-term use option through oral administration and plays an important role in the management of inflammatory skin and joint diseases.

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