Otezla (apremilast)

[Molly717]

Hi, I've just started taking Otezla for psoriatic arthritis (tried Methotrexate & Sulfasalazine but they didn't agree with me). Is anyone on Otezla and how's it going?

Thanks

[sylvi]

I don't use it sorry i can't help you on this subject darling.xxxx

[AuroraB]

Been on it for several years now - was added in to methotrexate and sulphasalazine and a biologic. I struggled initially with an upset gut from it - even with a long slow build up to the dose, but just persevered with it - took about 3 or 4 months till I could cope with it. For me it did help some- as some of the tendon insertions became less painful and I could be more mobile. Everyone is different with these drugs so I hope you have few side effects and that it helps you a lot.

[oldtimer]

If you put the drug names into the search box you should bring up previous posts about this medication which seems mainly used for psoriasis.

[Molly717]

Thank you, I'll look. Im on it for psoriatic arthritis and haven't come across many people who have been prescribed it. I've only been on it for a week so fingers crossed it will help. Thanks for your replies x

[Hidden]

Otezla was a medicine I wish I could have continued because it did give me some measurable relief from pain and inflammation. I was on it for six months before my gut /bowel issues became too bothersome to continue.

[Molly717]

I'm sorry to hear you had tummy problems and couldn't continue with it. I have a very bad tummy too with it and hope it will calm down. I've had terrible calf, thigh and buttock pain since I started it which has been awful at night. It has left me with calf pain that feels like bruising. Last night was the first night I didn't have it so fingers crossed it won't return. My psoriatic arthritis pain is strangely now slightly worse but my neck psoriasis is calmer. I've only been on it for 2 weeks so I will continue for the time being.

[Sarahd1609]

I’ve been on it 6months and apart from initial stomach problems it is the only thing that seems to control my Psoriatic Arthritis. My main joints feel less swollen and I’ve been able to start reducing my pain meds. Reducing them has been more of a challenge. Persevere with it. It will be worth it xx

[Molly717]

Hi, it’s good to hear you are having positive results from using Otezla. The calf, thigh and buttock pain I was having seems to have gone I’m very glad to say (this was a side effect of the drug). My tummy is still very upset. I’ve now been on Otezla for 3 months. My knees and elbows are calmer at the moment but I’ll need more time on Otezla before I can say if this is going to be long term relief. My ankles/ feet are still causing me problems. Finger joints are swelling more and I’ve had to remove my wedding ring which I’m very sad about. So still early day’s for me on this drug and I will persevere. Wishing you well, thanks for your reply x

[tubbyman in reply to Molly717]

Hi Molly, I am just about to start Otezla and wanted to know how have you been since your last post?