Otezla

Q: Who makes Otezla?

Otezla is listed by 1 labeler in the FDA NDC directory, including Amgen, Inc.

apremilast · Kit · Oral

Prescription (Rx) Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitor

Uses

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR, an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), is indicated for the treatment of: Adult patients with: Active psoriatic arthritis ( 1.1 ) Plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy ( 1.2 ) Oral ulcers associated with Behçet's Disease ( 1.3 ) Pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with: Active psoriatic arthritis ( 1.1 ) Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy ( 1.2 ) In the pediatric population, OTEZLA is indicated for patients weighing at least 20 kg, and OTEZLA XR is indicated for patients weighing at least 50 kg. 1.1 Psoriatic Arthritis OTEZLA is indicated for the treatment of adult patients and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with active psoriatic arthritis. OTEZLA XR is indicated for the treatment of adult patients and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 50 kg with active psoriatic arthritis. 1.2 Plaque Psoriasis OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. OTEZLA is indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. OTEZLA XR is indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 50 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. 1.3 Oral Ulcers Associated with Behçet's Disease OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with oral ulcers associated with Behçet's Disease.

Dosage and administration

To reduce the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms, titrate to recommended dosage as follows: Adults with Psoriatic Arthritis, Plaque Psoriasis, or Behçet's Disease See Table 1 for the initial titration schedule. Recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily or OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily ( 2.1 ) Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 20 kg with Psoriatic Arthritis or Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis See Table 2 for the initial titration schedule ( 2.1 ) For patients weighing 50 kg or more : Recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily or OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily ( 2.1 ) For patients weighing 20 kg to less than 50 kg : Recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 20 mg twice daily ( 2.1 ) Dosage in Patients with Severe Renal Impairment : Adult Patients : For initial dosage titration, titrate using only morning schedule listed in Table 1 and skip afternoon doses. Recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 30 mg once daily ( 2.3 ) Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 20 kg with Psoriatic Arthritis or Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis : For initial dosage titration, titrate using only morning schedule for appropriate body weight category in Table 2 and skip afternoon doses ( 2.3 ) For patients weighing 50 kg or more: Recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 30 mg once daily ( 2.3 ) For patients weighing 20 kg to less than 50 kg: Recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 20 mg once daily ( 2.3 ) 2.1 Recommended Dosage in Adult and Pediatric Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis, Plaque Psoriasis, and Behçet's Disease Adult Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis, Plaque Psoriasis, or Behçet's Disease The recommended initial dosage titration from Day 1 to Day 5 is shown in Table 1. Following the 5-day titration with OTEZLA, the recommended maintenance dosage is OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily or OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily taken orally starting on Day 6. This titration is intended to reduce the gastrointestinal symptoms associated with initial therapy. Table 1. Dosage Titration Schedule for Adult Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis, Plaque Psoriasis, or Behçet's Disease OTEZLA Dosage Titration OTEZLA tablets should be used for the initial titration regardless of whether OTEZLA or OTEZLA XR will be used for the maintenance dosage. OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR Maintenance Dosage Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 & thereafter AM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM BID = twice daily; QD = once daily 10 mg 10 mg 10 mg 10 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg 30 mg OTEZLA 30 mg BID OR OTEZLA XR 75 mg QD Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 20 kg with Psoriatic Arthritis Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis The recommended dosage for pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with psoriatic arthritis or moderate to severe plaque psoriasis is based on body weight. Following the appropriate initial titration schedule shown in Table 2, the recommended maintenance dosage is: For pediatric patients who weigh at least 50 kg: OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily or OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily taken orally For pediatric patients who weigh from 20 kg to less than 50 kg: OTEZLA 20 mg twice daily taken orally The initial titration is intended to reduce the gastrointestinal symptoms associated with initial therapy. Table 2. Dosage Titration Schedule for Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 20 kg with Psoriatic Arthritis or Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis OTEZLA Dosage Titration OTEZLA tablets should be used for the initial titration regardless of whether OTEZLA or OTEZLA XR will be used for the maintenance dosage. OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR Maintenance Dosage Body Weight Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 & thereafter AM AM PM AM PM AM PM AM PM BID = twice daily; QD = once daily 50 kg or more 10 mg 10 mg 10 mg 10 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg 30 mg OTEZLA 30 mg BID OR OTEZLA XR 75 mg QD 20 kg to less than 50 kg 10 mg 10 mg 10 mg 10 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg 20 mg OTEZLA 20 mg BID 2.2 Switching Between OTEZLA and OTEZLA XR Patients treated with OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily may be switched to OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily the day following the last dose of OTEZLA 30 mg. Patients treated with OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily may be switched to OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily the day following the last dose of OTEZLA XR 75 mg. 2.3 Dosage Adjustment in Adult and Pediatric Patients with Severe Renal Impairment Adult Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis, Plaque Psoriasis, or Behçet's Disease For initial dosage titration in adult patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CLcr] of less than 30 mL per minute estimated by the Cockcroft–Gault equation), titrate OTEZLA using only the AM schedule listed in Table 1 and skip the PM doses. The recommended maintenance dosage in this group is OTEZLA 30 mg once daily [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . OTEZLA XR is not recommended for adult patients with severe renal impairment; the appropriate dosage for these patients has not been determined [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Pediatric Patients 6 Years of Age and Older and Weighing at Least 20 kg with Psoriatic Arthritis or Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis For initial dosage titration in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with psoriatic arthritis or moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and severe renal impairment (CLcr of less than 30 mL per minute estimated by the Cockcroft–Gault equation), titrate OTEZLA using only the AM schedule listed in Table 2 for the appropriate body weight category and skip the PM doses.

Dosage forms and strengths

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS OTEZLA is available as diamond-shaped, film-coated tablets in the following dosage strengths: 10-mg pink tablet engraved with "APR" on one side and "10" on the other side 20-mg brown tablet engraved with "APR" on one side and "20" on the other side 30-mg beige tablet engraved with "APR" on one side and "30" on the other side OTEZLA XR is available as 75 mg round, biconvex, pink, film-coated extended-release tablets with "APR 75" printed in black on one side and a hole or indentation on either side of the tablet, which may or may not be visible. OTEZLA Tablets: 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg ( 3 ) OTEZLA XR Tablets: 75 mg ( 3 )

Contraindications

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to apremilast or to any of the excipients in the formulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Known hypersensitivity to apremilast or to any of the excipients in the formulation ( 4 )

Warnings and precautions

Hypersensitivity : Cases of angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported during post marketing surveillance. Avoid the use of OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR in patients with known hypersensitivity to apremilast or to any of the excipients in the formulation. If signs or symptoms of serious hypersensitivity reactions develop during treatment, discontinue OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR and institute appropriate therapy ( 5.1 ) Diarrhea, Nausea, and Vomiting : Consider OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR dosage reduction or suspension if patients develop severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting ( 5.2 ) Depression : Advise patients, their caregivers, and families to be alert for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or other mood changes and if such changes occur to contact their healthcare provider. Carefully weigh risks and benefits of treatment with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR in patients with a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts or behavior ( 5.3 ) Weight Decrease : Monitor weight regularly. If unexplained or clinically significant weight loss occurs, evaluate weight loss and consider discontinuation of OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR ( 5.4 ) Drug Interactions : Use with strong cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenobarbital, carbamazepine, phenytoin) is not recommended because loss of efficacy may occur ( 5.5 , 7.1 ) 5.1 Hypersensitivity Hypersensitivity reactions, including cases of angioedema and anaphylaxis, have been reported during post marketing surveillance. Avoid the use of OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR in patients with known hypersensitivity to apremilast or to any of the excipients in the formulation. If signs or symptoms of serious hypersensitivity reactions develop during treatment, discontinue OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR and institute appropriate therapy. 5.2 Diarrhea, Nausea, and Vomiting There have been reports of severe diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting associated with the use of OTEZLA. Most events occurred within the first few weeks of treatment. In some cases, patients were hospitalized. Patients 65 years of age or older and patients taking medications that can lead to volume depletion or hypotension may be at a higher risk of complications from severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Monitor patients who are more susceptible to complications of diarrhea or vomiting. Patients who reduced dosage or discontinued OTEZLA generally improved quickly. Consider OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR dosage reduction or suspension if patients develop severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. 5.3 Depression Treatment with apremilast is associated with an increased incidence of depression. Before using OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR in patients with a history of depression and/or suicidal thoughts or behavior, carefully weigh the risks and benefits of treatment with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR. Advise patients, their caregivers, and families of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or other mood changes, and if such changes occur to contact their healthcare provider. Carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of continuing treatment with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR if such events occur. Psoriatic Arthritis : During the 16-week placebo-controlled period of the 3 controlled clinical trials, 1.0% (10/998) of subjects treated with OTEZLA reported depression or depressed mood compared to 0.8% (4/495) treated with placebo. During the clinical trials, 0.3% (4/1441) of subjects treated with OTEZLA discontinued treatment due to depression or depressed mood compared with none in placebo treated subjects (0/495). Depression was reported as serious in 0.2% (3/1441) of subjects exposed to OTEZLA, compared to none in placebo-treated subjects (0/495). Instances of suicidal ideation and behavior have been observed in 0.2% (3/1441) of subjects while receiving OTEZLA, compared to none in placebo treated subjects (0/495). In the clinical trials, 2 subjects who received placebo committed suicide compared to none in OTEZLA-treated subjects. Plaque Psoriasis : During the 16-week placebo-controlled period of the 3 controlled clinical trials in adult subjects with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, 1.3% (12/920) of subjects treated with OTEZLA reported depression compared to 0.4% (2/506) treated with placebo. During the clinical trials, 0.1% (1/1308) of subjects treated with OTEZLA discontinued treatment due to depression compared with none in placebo-treated subjects (0/506). Depression was reported as serious in 0.1% (1/1308) of subjects exposed to OTEZLA, compared to none in placebo-treated subjects (0/506). Instances of suicidal behavior have been observed in 0.1% (1/1308) of subjects while receiving OTEZLA, compared to 0.2% (1/506) in placebo-treated subjects. In the clinical trials, one subject treated with OTEZLA attempted suicide while one who received placebo committed suicide. During the 16-week placebo-controlled period of the clinical trial in adults with mild to moderate plaque psoriasis, the incidence of subjects reporting depression was similar to what was observed in the adult moderate to severe plaque psoriasis trials. Behçet's Disease : During the placebo-controlled period of the phase 3 trial, 1% (1/104) of subjects treated with OTEZLA reported depression/depressed mood compared to 1% (1/103) treated with placebo. None of these reports of depression was serious or led to discontinuation from the trial. No instances of suicidal ideation or behavior were reported during the placebo-controlled period of the phase 3 trial in subjects treated with OTEZLA (0/104) or treated with placebo (0/103). 5.4 Weight Decrease Weight loss may occur in adult or pediatric patients treated with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR. Regularly monitor the weight of patients treated with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR. If unexplained or clinically significant weight loss occurs, evaluate weight loss and consider discontinuation of OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] .

Side effects

The following adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypersensitivity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Diarrhea, Nausea, and Vomiting [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Weight Decrease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Drug Interactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Psoriatic Arthritis : The most common adverse reactions (≥ 5%) are diarrhea, nausea, and headache ( 6.1 ) Plaque Psoriasis : The most common adverse reactions (≥ 5%) are diarrhea, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, and headache, including tension headache ( 6.1 ) Behçet's Disease : The most common adverse reactions (≥ 10%) are diarrhea, nausea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Amgen Inc. at 1-800-77-AMGEN (1-800-772-6436) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Psoriatic Arthritis Clinical Trials OTEZLA was evaluated in three multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (PsA-1, PsA-2, and PsA-3) of similar design in adult subjects with active psoriatic arthritis [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Across the three trials, there were 1493 subjects randomized equally to placebo, OTEZLA 20 mg twice daily or OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily. Titration was used over the first 5 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . Placebo subjects whose tender and swollen joint counts had not improved by at least 20% were re-randomized 1:1 in a blinded fashion to either OTEZLA 20 mg twice daily or 30 mg twice daily at week 16 while OTEZLA subjects remained on their initial treatment. Subjects ranged in age from 18 to 83 years, with an overall median age of 51 years. The majority of the most common adverse reactions presented in Table 3 occurred within the first 2 weeks of treatment and tended to resolve over time with continued dosing. Diarrhea, headache, and nausea were the most commonly reported adverse reactions. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation for subjects taking OTEZLA were nausea (1.8%), diarrhea (1.8%), and headache (1.2%). The proportion of subjects with psoriatic arthritis who discontinued treatment due to any adverse reaction was 4.6% for subjects taking OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily and 1.2% for placebo-treated subjects. Table 3. Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥ 2% of Adult Subjects with Active Psoriatic Arthritis on OTEZLA 30 mg Twice Daily and ≥ 1% than That Observed in Subjects on Placebo up to Day 112 (Week 16) Placebo OTEZLA 30 mg BID BID = twice daily. Adverse Reactions Day 1 to 5 (N = 495) n (%) n (%) indicates number of subjects and percent. Day 6 to Day 112 (N = 490) n (%) Day 1 to 5 (N = 497) n (%) Day 6 to Day 112 (N = 493) n (%) Diarrhea Of the reported gastrointestinal adverse reactions, 1 subject experienced a serious adverse reaction of nausea and vomiting in OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily; 1 subject treated with OTEZLA 20 mg twice daily experienced a serious adverse reaction of diarrhea; 1 subject treated with OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily experienced a serious adverse reaction of headache. 6 (1.2) 8 (1.6) 46 (9.3) 38 (7.7) Nausea 7 (1.4) 15 (3.1) 37 (7.4) 44 (8.9) Headache 9 (1.8) 11 (2.2) 24 (4.8) 29 (5.9) Upper respiratory tract infection Of the reported adverse drug reactions none were serious. 3 (0.6) 9 (1.8) 3 (0.6) 19 (3.9) Vomiting 2 (0.4) 2 (0.4) 4 (0.8) 16 (3.2) Nasopharyngitis 1 (0.2) 8 (1.6) 1 (0.2) 13 (2.6) Abdominal pain upper 0 (0.0) 1 (0.2) 3 (0.6) 10 (2.0) Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis Clinical Trials Adverse Reactions from Clinical Trials in Adults The safety of OTEZLA was assessed in 1426 subjects in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in adult subjects with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who were candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. Subjects were randomized to receive OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily or placebo twice daily. Titration was used over the first 5 days [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . Subjects ranged in age from 18 to 83 years, with an overall median age of 46 years. Diarrhea, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infection were the most commonly reported adverse reactions (see Table 4 ). The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation for subjects taking OTEZLA were nausea (1.6%), diarrhea (1.0%), and headache (0.8%). The proportion of subjects with plaque psoriasis who discontinued treatment due to any adverse reaction was 6.1% for subjects treated with OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily and 4.1% for placebo-treated subjects. Table 4. Adverse Reactions Reported in ≥ 1% of Adult Subjects with Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis on OTEZLA and With Greater Frequency Than in Subjects on Placebo up to Day 112 (Week 16) Adverse Reactions Placebo (N = 506) n (%) OTEZLA 30 mg BID BID = twice daily. (N = 920) n (%) Diarrhea 32 (6) 160 (17) Nausea 35 (7) 155 (17) Upper respiratory tract infection 31 (6) 84 (9) Tension headache 21 (4) 75 (8) Headache 19 (4) 55 (6) Abdominal pain Two subjects treated with OTEZLA experienced serious adverse reaction of abdominal pain. 11 (2) 39 (4) Vomiting 8 (2) 35 (4) Fatigue 9 (2) 29 (3) Dyspepsia 6 (1) 29 (3) Decreased appetite 5 (1) 26 (3) Insomnia 4 (1) 21 (2) Back pain 4 (1) 20 (2) Migraine 5 (1) 19 (2) Frequent bowel movements 1 (0) 17 (2) Depression 2 (0) 12 (1) Bronchitis 2 (0) 12 (1) Tooth abscess 0 (0) 10 (1) Folliculitis 0 (0) 9 (1) Sinus headache 0 (0) 9 (1) Severe worsening of psoriasis (rebound) occurred in 0.3% (4/1184) subjects following discontinuation of treatment with OTEZLA.

Drug interactions

7.1 Strong CYP450 Inducers Co-administration with strong CYP450 inducers (such as rifampin) decreases apremilast exposure and may result in loss of efficacy of OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .

Use in specific populations

Severe Renal Impairment : Increased systemic exposure of OTEZLA has been observed. For adults and for pediatric patients weighing 50 kg or more, reduce dosage to OTEZLA 30 mg once daily. For pediatric patients weighing 20 kg to less than 50 kg, reduce dosage to OTEZLA 20 mg once daily ( 2.3 , 8.6 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data with OTEZLA use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data ) . In animal embryo-fetal development studies, the administration of apremilast to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during organogenesis resulted in dose-related increases in abortion/embryo-fetal death at dose exposures approximately 2-times the maximum recommended human therapeutic dose (MRHD) and no adverse effect at an exposure of 1.4-times the MRHD. When apremilast was administered to pregnant mice during organogenesis, there were no apremilast-induced malformations up to exposures 4-times the MRHD. Based on findings from animal reproduction studies, OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR may increase the risk for fetal loss (see Data ) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk of fetal loss. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data A pregnancy registry conducted by the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS) in the United States and Canada assessed the risk of major birth defects in liveborn infants of women with psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, or Behçet's Disease exposed to apremilast in the first trimester. The study compared pregnant women treated with apremilast (n = 15) with disease matched pregnant women who were not exposed to apremilast (n = 106). In the apremilast-exposed cohort, there were no reports of liveborn infants with major birth defects nor miscarriages. One stillbirth was reported in the apremilast exposed cohort. These data are limited by the small sample size of apremilast-exposed pregnancies. Animal Data In an embryo-fetal developmental study, pregnant cynomolgus monkeys were administered apremilast at doses of 20, 50, 200, or 1000 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis (gestation Days [GD] 20 through 50). There was a dose -related increase in spontaneous abortions, with most abortions occurring during Weeks 3 to 4 of dosing in the first trimester, at doses approximately 2-times the MRHD and greater (on an area under the curve [AUC] basis at doses ≥ 50 mg/kg/day). No abortifacient effects were observed at a dose approximately 1.4-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day). Although there was no evidence for a teratogenic effect at doses of 20 mg/kg/day and greater when examined at Day 100, aborted fetuses were not examined. In an embryo-fetal development study in mice, apremilast was administered at doses of 250, 500, or 750 mg/kg/day to dams during organogenesis (GD 6 through 15). In a combined fertility and embryo-fetal development study in mice, apremilast was administered at doses of 10, 20, 40, or 80 mg/kg/day starting 15 days before cohabitation and continuing through GD 15. No teratogenic findings attributed to apremilast were observed in either study; however, there was an increase in post-implantation loss at doses corresponding to a systemic exposure of approximately 2-times the MRHD and greater (≥ 20 mg/kg/day). At doses of ≥ 20 mg/kg/day skeletal variations included incomplete ossification sites of tarsals, skull, sternebra, and vertebrae. No effects were observed at a dose approximately 1.3-times the MRHD (10 mg/kg/day). Apremilast distributed across the placenta into the fetal compartment in mice and monkeys. In a pre and postnatal study in mice, apremilast was administered to pregnant female mice at doses of 10, 80, or 300 mg/kg/day from Day 6 of gestation through Day 20 of lactation, with weaning on Day 21. Dystocia, reduced viability, and reduced birth weights occurred at doses corresponding to ≥ 4-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis at doses ≥ 80 mg/kg/day). No adverse effects occurred at a dose 1.3-times the MRHD (10 mg/kg/day). There was no evidence for functional impairment of physical development, behavior, learning ability, immune competence, or fertility in the offspring at doses up to 7.5-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis at a dose of 300 mg/kg/day). 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of apremilast in human milk, its effects on the breastfed infant, or its effects on milk production. However, apremilast was detected in the milk of lactating mice (see Data ). When a drug is present in animal milk, it is likely that the drug will be present in human milk. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR or from the underlying maternal condition. Data In mice, following a single oral administration of 10 mg/kg to dams on postpartum Day 13, apremilast concentrations in milk were approximately 1.5-times that of simultaneously collected blood samples. 8.4 Pediatric Use OTEZLA Plaque Psoriasis The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. Use of OTEZLA in these patients is supported by evidence from a 52-week adequate and well-controlled clinical trial (PSOR-6) in 245 pediatric subjects 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

Pregnancy

8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Available data with OTEZLA use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes (see Data ) . In animal embryo-fetal development studies, the administration of apremilast to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during organogenesis resulted in dose-related increases in abortion/embryo-fetal death at dose exposures approximately 2-times the maximum recommended human therapeutic dose (MRHD) and no adverse effect at an exposure of 1.4-times the MRHD. When apremilast was administered to pregnant mice during organogenesis, there were no apremilast-induced malformations up to exposures 4-times the MRHD. Based on findings from animal reproduction studies, OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR may increase the risk for fetal loss (see Data ) . Advise pregnant women of the potential risk of fetal loss. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Data Human Data A pregnancy registry conducted by the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS) in the United States and Canada assessed the risk of major birth defects in liveborn infants of women with psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, or Behçet's Disease exposed to apremilast in the first trimester. The study compared pregnant women treated with apremilast (n = 15) with disease matched pregnant women who were not exposed to apremilast (n = 106). In the apremilast-exposed cohort, there were no reports of liveborn infants with major birth defects nor miscarriages. One stillbirth was reported in the apremilast exposed cohort. These data are limited by the small sample size of apremilast-exposed pregnancies. Animal Data In an embryo-fetal developmental study, pregnant cynomolgus monkeys were administered apremilast at doses of 20, 50, 200, or 1000 mg/kg/day during the period of organogenesis (gestation Days [GD] 20 through 50). There was a dose -related increase in spontaneous abortions, with most abortions occurring during Weeks 3 to 4 of dosing in the first trimester, at doses approximately 2-times the MRHD and greater (on an area under the curve [AUC] basis at doses ≥ 50 mg/kg/day). No abortifacient effects were observed at a dose approximately 1.4-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day). Although there was no evidence for a teratogenic effect at doses of 20 mg/kg/day and greater when examined at Day 100, aborted fetuses were not examined. In an embryo-fetal development study in mice, apremilast was administered at doses of 250, 500, or 750 mg/kg/day to dams during organogenesis (GD 6 through 15). In a combined fertility and embryo-fetal development study in mice, apremilast was administered at doses of 10, 20, 40, or 80 mg/kg/day starting 15 days before cohabitation and continuing through GD 15. No teratogenic findings attributed to apremilast were observed in either study; however, there was an increase in post-implantation loss at doses corresponding to a systemic exposure of approximately 2-times the MRHD and greater (≥ 20 mg/kg/day). At doses of ≥ 20 mg/kg/day skeletal variations included incomplete ossification sites of tarsals, skull, sternebra, and vertebrae. No effects were observed at a dose approximately 1.3-times the MRHD (10 mg/kg/day). Apremilast distributed across the placenta into the fetal compartment in mice and monkeys. In a pre and postnatal study in mice, apremilast was administered to pregnant female mice at doses of 10, 80, or 300 mg/kg/day from Day 6 of gestation through Day 20 of lactation, with weaning on Day 21. Dystocia, reduced viability, and reduced birth weights occurred at doses corresponding to ≥ 4-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis at doses ≥ 80 mg/kg/day). No adverse effects occurred at a dose 1.3-times the MRHD (10 mg/kg/day). There was no evidence for functional impairment of physical development, behavior, learning ability, immune competence, or fertility in the offspring at doses up to 7.5-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis at a dose of 300 mg/kg/day).

Pediatric use

8.4 Pediatric Use OTEZLA Plaque Psoriasis The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA have been established in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. Use of OTEZLA in these patients is supported by evidence from a 52-week adequate and well-controlled clinical trial (PSOR-6) in 245 pediatric subjects 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Weight loss in OTEZLA-treated pediatric subjects was comparable to weight loss observed in adults [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) and Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in pediatric patients treated with OTEZLA. Pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA have not been established in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years or weighing less than 20 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Psoriatic Arthritis The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA have been established for pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 20 kg with psoriatic arthritis. Use of OTEZLA in these patients is supported by evidence from adequate and well controlled trials of OTEZLA in adults with psoriatic arthritis, pharmacokinetic data from adult patients with psoriatic arthritis, adult patients with psoriasis, and pediatric patients with psoriasis, and safety data from a clinical trial in 245 pediatric patients 6 years of age and older with psoriasis. Steady-state exposure of OTEZLA in pediatric patients with psoriatic arthritis is estimated to be comparable to adults with psoriatic arthritis and pediatric patients with psoriasis [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in OTEZLA-treated pediatric patients. Pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA have not been established in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years or weighing less than 20 kg with psoriatic arthritis. Behçet's Disease The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA have not been established in pediatric patients with psoriatic arthritis or oral ulcers associated with Behçet's Disease. OTEZLA XR Plaque Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA XR have been established for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in pediatric patients 6 years of age and older and weighing at least 50 kg. Use of OTEZLA XR in these patients is supported by pharmacokinetic data from healthy adults demonstrating comparable PK exposure between OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily and OTEZLA 30 mg twice daily, which is the recommended OTEZLA dosage for pediatric patients weighing at least 50 kg [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) , Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Closely monitor growth (height and weight) in pediatric patients treated with OTEZLA XR. Pediatric patients who are not growing or gaining weight as expected may need to have their treatment interrupted. The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA XR have not been established in pediatric patients below the age of 6 years or weighing less than 50 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Behçet's Disease The safety and effectiveness of OTEZLA XR have not been established in pediatric patients with oral ulcers associated with Behçet's Disease.

Geriatric use

8.5 Geriatric Use Of the 1493 patients who enrolled in Trials PsA-1, PsA-2, and PsA-3, a total of 146 (9.8%) psoriatic arthritis patients were 65 years of age and older, including 19 (1.3%) patients 75 years and older. No overall differences were observed in the safety profile of geriatric patients ≥ 65 years of age and younger adult patients < 65 years of age in the clinical trials. Of the 1257 subjects who enrolled in two placebo-controlled plaque psoriasis trials (PSOR-1 and PSOR-2), a total of 108 (8.6%) plaque psoriasis patients were 65 years of age and older, including 9 (0.7%) patients who were 75 years of age and older. No overall differences were observed in the safety or effectiveness in geriatric patients ≥ 65 years of age and younger adult patients < 65 years of age in the clinical trials. Because patients 65 years of age or older may be at a higher risk of complications such as volume depletion or hypotension from severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, monitor geriatric patients closely for such complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .

Description

The active ingredient in OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR tablets is apremilast. Apremilast drug substance is non-hygroscopic. Apremilast drug substance is practically insoluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. Apremilast is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor. Apremilast is known chemically as N-[2-[(1S)-1-(3-ethoxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-(methylsulfonyl)ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-1,3-dioxo-1H-isoindol-4-yl]acetamide. Its empirical formula is C 22 H 24 N 2 O 7 S and the molecular weight is 460.5. The chemical structure is: OTEZLA (apremilast) tablets are supplied in 10 mg, 20 mg, and 30 mg strengths for oral administration. Each tablet contains apremilast as the active ingredient and the following inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, iron oxide red, iron oxide yellow (20 and 30 mg only), iron oxide black (30 mg only), lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, talc, titanium dioxide. OTEZLA XR (apremilast) extended-release tablets are supplied in a 75 mg strength for oral administration. Each tablet contains apremilast as the active ingredient and the following inactive ingredients: cellulose acetate, colloidal silicon dioxide, ferrosoferric oxide, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate, hypromellose, iron oxide red, magnesium stearate, mannitol, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, sodium chloride, titanium dioxide. Chemical Structure

Mechanism of action

12.1 Mechanism of Action Apremilast is an oral small molecule inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) specific for cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). PDE4 inhibition results in increased intracellular cAMP levels. The specific mechanism(s) by which apremilast exerts its therapeutic action is not well defined.

How supplied

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING OTEZLA is available as diamond-shaped, film-coated tablets in the following dosage strengths: 10 mg pink tablet engraved with "APR" on one side and "10" on the other side; 20 mg brown tablet engraved with "APR" on one side and "20" on the other side; 30 mg beige tablet engraved with "APR" on one side and "30" on the other side. Tablets are supplied in the strengths and package configurations listed in Table 14. Table 14. OTEZLA Package Configurations Package configuration Tablet strength NDC number Configurations for 30 mg BID Dosage 28-day treatment initiation pack 55-tablet blister pack including tablets for titration and maintenance dosage: 4 tablets (10 mg each), 4 tablets (20 mg each), and 47 tablets (30 mg each) 55513-369-55 60-count bottle 30 mg 55513-137-60 Configurations for 20 mg BID Dosage 28-day treatment initiation pack 55-tablet blister pack including tablets for titration and maintenance dosage: 4 tablets (10 mg each) and 51 tablets (20 mg each) 55513-508-55 60-count bottle 20 mg 55513-497-60 OTEZLA XR is available as 75 mg round, biconvex, pink, film-coated extended-release tablets with "APR 75" printed in black on one side and a hole or indentation on either side of the tablet, which may or may not be visible. Tablets are supplied in the strengths and package configurations listed in Table 15. Table 15. OTEZLA XR Package Configurations Package configuration Tablet strength NDC number 28-day treatment initiation pack The 28-day treatment initiation pack provides the first 14 days of treatment with OTEZLA (titration schedule on Days 1–5 and maintenance dosage of 30 mg twice daily on Days 6–14), followed by a switch to OTEZLA XR 75 mg once daily for the subsequent 14 days. 41-tablet blister titration pack including tablets for titration and maintenance dosage: OTEZLA: 4 tablets (10 mg each), 4 tablets (20 mg each), and 19 tablets (30 mg each) and OTEZLA XR: 14 tablets (75 mg each) 55513-516-41 Bottles of 30 OTEZLA XR : 30 tablets (75 mg each) 55513-519-30 Storage and Handling Store OTEZLA tablets below 30°C (86°F). Store OTEZLA XR tablets between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Storage

Storage and Handling Store OTEZLA tablets below 30°C (86°F). Store OTEZLA XR tablets between 20°C and 25°C (68°F and 77°F); excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Patient information

Administration Instructions Instruct patients to take OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR only as prescribed [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 and 2.3) ] . Advise patients to take OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR with or without food. Instruct patients to swallow tablets whole and not to crush, split, or chew prior to swallowing [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ] . Hypersensitivity Inform patients that hypersensitivity reactions can occur following administration of OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR. Instruct patients to contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of an allergic reaction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Diarrhea, Nausea, and Vomiting Advise patients of the potential complications of severe diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting and instruct them to contact their healthcare provider if they experience these adverse reactions, especially if the patient is 65 years of age or older [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Depression Inform patients that treatment with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR is associated with an increased incidence of depression. Advise patients, their caregivers, and families of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or other mood changes, and if such changes occur to contact their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Weight Decrease Inform patients that treatment with OTEZLA/OTEZLA XR is associated with potential weight loss. Instruct patients or caregivers to have their or their child's weight monitored regularly and, if unexplained or clinically significant weight loss occurs, to contact their healthcare provider for evaluation of the weight loss [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Pregnancy Advise pregnant patients and patients of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise patients to inform their prescriber of a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Residual Tablet Shell Patients receiving OTEZLA XR may notice an inert tablet shell passing in the stool or via colostomy. Patients should be informed that the active medication has already been absorbed by the time the patient sees the inert tablet shell.

Label text from the FDA structured product label by Amgen, Inc (revised Sep 2, 2026). Long sections are shortened; the complete label is on DailyMed.

Active ingredients

Apremilast in 3 products

Otezla NDC products (8)

NDC	Strength & form	Labeler	Type
55513-137	Apremilast 30 mg/1 Tablet, Film Coated	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-369	Kit	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-485	Kit	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-497	Apremilast 20 mg/1 Tablet, Film Coated	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-508	Kit	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-516	Kit	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-519	Apremilast 75 mg/1 Tablet, Film Coated	Amgen, Inc	NDA
55513-996	Kit	Amgen, Inc	NDA