Apraize 30 tablet is an anti-rheumatic medicine that contains Apremilast as the main component. It is used for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, a form of arthritis. It is also used for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, an autoimmune inflammatory skin disorder. Apraize 30 functions by alleviating the pain and by blocking certain chemicals causing pain and swelling.
Use of Apremilast in the treatment of plaque psoriasis
Plaque psoriasis is an autoimmune condition and one of the most common forms of psoriasis. It is a medical condition in which the skin cells of the body grow too quickly and appear raised, inflammated, scaly and dry patches. They are most commonly seen on the scalp, elbows, lower back and knees. Apremilast minimizes the scaly, itchy patches that may develop on various body parts. The course of treatment may last for several months to become completely effective. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol consumption during the treatment of plaque psoriasis.
Working of Apraize 30mg (Apremilast)
- PDE-4 (Phosphodiesterase-4) is an enzyme that breaks down cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) in the immune and inflammatory cells of the body. Thus, PDE-4 plays a key role in triggering an inflammatory response in the human body.
- Apraize 30 mg contains Apremilast as the active constituent which is a PDE-4 inhibitor.
- Apremilast works by inhibiting the degradative action of PDE-4 enzyme of cAMP.
- The levels of cAMP in the blood increases, thus reducing inflammation.
- Through PDE-4 inhibition, Apremilast calms the overactive immune cells, thereby effectively treating inflammatory conditions such as psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis.
Mechanism of action of Apremilast in the human body
(i) Inhibition of PDE-4 enzyme : Apremilast present in the Apraize 30 tablet blocks the PDE-4 enzyme, which normally breaks down cyclic AMP (cAMP), a vital secondary messenger in the inflammatory cells.
(ii) Increase in the cAMP levels : By preventing the breakdown of cAMP, Apremilast increases its concentration within the cells, which helps to control inflammation.
(iii) Decreases pro-inflammatory substances : Apremilast reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory substances such as interleukin-17, interleukin-23, and Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). These are molecules that elicit or increase the inflammatory response in the body.
(iv) Increases the levels of anti-inflammatory mediators : Apremilast boosts the levels of interleukin-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine that works to reduce the inflammation in the body.
Uses of the Apraize 30mg tablet
Apraize 30mg tablet having Apremilast is used for the following:
- Effectively managing moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
- Treatment of psoriatic arthritis in adults.
- Providing relief from mouth sores in Behçet’s disease.
- Treatment of inflammatory conditions that affect the skin and bones
- Management of chronic inflammatory diseases
- Therapy for patients who cannot tolerate systemic medications
Intake of Apraize 30mg tablet
- Apraize 30mg can be taken with or without food.
- The doctor decides the dosage of this medicine based on the severity of the condition.
- Prior to starting this medicine, inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions you have and all other medicines or supplements you are taking.
- In order to maintain a constant level of Apremilast in the body, take it at the same time every day.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Never take more than the prescribed dose as it can result in some serious side effects.
- Even if you begin to feel better, continue taking the medicine for the full duration prescribed.
Dosage of the Apraize 30mg tablet
(i) Daily Dose : The daily dose of Apremilast 30 mg should be taken precisely as per the doctor’s prescription. The dosage may vary depending on the severity of the medical condition and response to the medicine. Never change the dosage without consulting the doctor first.
(ii) Over Dose : An overdose of Apremilast 30 mg may cause severe headache, vomiting, stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhoea. One may also experience indigestion, loss of appetite, and unexpected weight loss. Get in touch with your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
(iii) Missed Dose : If you forget to take Apremilast 30 mg, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and go on with the regular schedule. Never take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.
Side effects of Apremilast 30 mg
Apremilast produces certain side effects in the human body. Most of these are mild and disappear on their own without any medical attention. However, if they persist or become worse with time, consult a doctor immediately.
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of weight
- Backpain
- Upper abdominal pain
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Tiredness and weakness
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
Warning and Precautions
(i) Kidney disease : Apremilast tablet should be taken with caution in patients having severe renal problems. Consult your doctor before taking Apremilast 30 mg tablet.
(ii) Liver disease : Apremilast should be used with caution in patients with liver issues such as liver failure. Consult your doctor before taking Apremilast tablets.
(iii) Pregnancy : Apremilast 30 mg is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy and in women who are planning for pregnancy. Consult the doctor prior to taking the medicine.
(iv) Breastfeeding : Apremilast is generally not recommended for use in lactating women as it is not known whether the medicine passes through breast milk. Consult your doctor before taking the medicine.
(v) Driving : Apremilast is not likely to affect your ability to drive.
(vi) Hypersensitivity : Do not take an Apraize tablet if you are allergic to Apremilast, and/or any other ingredient of this medicine.
(vii) Alcohol : Exercise caution while consuming alcohol with Apremilast 30 mg. It is best to consult your doctor prior to consuming alcohol.
(viii) Children and adolescents : Apremilast 30 mg is not recommended for use in children and adolescents.
Interaction of Apremilast 30 mg with other drugs
Here are the various drugs that may interact with Apremilast 30 mg.
- Rifampicin
- Cyclosporine
- Probenecid
- Clarithromycin
Storage
- The medicine should be stored at room temperature.
- It should be kept away from direct sunlight and moisture in a dry and cool place to maintain its effectiveness.
- Keep away from the reach of children.
- Use the medicine prior to the expiry date mentioned on the packet.
Apraize 30mg is a highly effective medication containing Apremilast. However, you need to be patient as it may take time to show its full effectiveness.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for Apremilast to work?
A. Apremilast is used for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis and plaque psoriasis. It is a long-term treatment and may require 14-16 weeks to show the results.
2. Is Apremilast an immunosuppressive agent?
A. No, Apremilast is not an immunosuppressive agent. It belongs to a class of drugs known as PDE-4 inhibitors. It functions by blocking the activity of PDE-4 found in the inflammatory cells. This PDE-4 enzyme activity block helps to decrease the molecules responsible for inflammation.
3. Does Apremilast 30 mg cause loss of weight?
A. Yes, Apremilast 30 mg may cause a reduction in appetite, which may result in weight loss. Regular monitoring of weight is essential while on treatment with Apremilast. In case of extreme weight loss, consult your doctor for stopping the Apremilast 30 mg tablet.
4. How should the Apraize 30mg tablet be taken?
A. The Apraize 30mg tablet should be swallowed completely with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet in the mouth.