This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication. 

Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.

Most people who use Otezla do not experience any negative side effects. Doctors prescribe Otezla because they assess the benefits of such treatment outweigh any likely unwanted effects.

Some of the side effects that have been reported include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, headache, upper respiratory tract infection, and abdominal pain.

Not all side effects are listed here. If these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Psoriatic Arthritis: The most common adverse reactions (≥ 5%) are diarrhea, nausea, and headache

Psoriasis: The most common adverse reactions (≥ 5%) are diarrhea, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, and headache, including tension headache

Behçet’s Disease: The most common adverse reactions (≥ 10%) are diarrhea, nausea, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can include joint stiffness, pain, and swelling. The joints of the spine can be affected, leading to stiffness in the neck, lower back, and hips. Joint stiffness is often worse in the morning or after resting. Fatigue, or a lack of energy, can be additional effects. The only way a definitive diagnosis can be made is with X-rays and/or MRI imaging.

Chronic plaque psoriasis can appear on the scalp, face, palms of the hands and soles of the feet. They are normally characterized by coin-sized plaques of scaly dead skin that have sharply delineated edges. It is difficult to distinguish between plaque psoriasis and other skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, discoid eczema, simplex, pityriasis rosea and many others. The extent and degree of psoriasis can be assessed by Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score.