Zest Health Guide to Otezla

(Apremilast)
What is Otezla and how does it work?

Otezla is a pill that targets phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), an inflammatory signal of your immune system that causes psoriasis. By calming this overactive response, Otezla helps reduce redness, plaque development and pain in your skin and joints.

How do I take Otezla?

Your Zest team will customize your care based on your goals and how your body responds. 

Here’s what to expect:

Getting started

To get ready and ensure this treatment is safe and effective you’ll need to complete the following:

  • Submit baseline photos for your skin severity assessment
  • Complete baseline bloodwork, if indicated
  • Provide previous treatment records, if requested
Dosing Schedule
Loading Dose
Maintenance Dose
Dose reduction1
Scheduled treatment break2

Otezla start pack

30 mg pill twice daily

Loading Dose
Maintenance Dose

Otezla start pack

30 mg pill twice daily

1 Considered after 16 weeks of treatment.

Results to expect
  • Many people notice less itching and fewer symptoms as early as 4 weeks.
  • By 16 weeks, 22% of people have clearer or nearly clear skin!3

3 Otezlapro.com – “OTEZLA® (APREMILAST) EFFICACY IN PLAQUE PSORIASIS” Accessed May 12, 2025.

Can I reduce my doses over time?

Yes! Once your symptoms are under control, your Zest dermatology provider will work with you to create a long-term plan. This might include taking planned medication breaks when appropriate.

Is it safe? Are there side effects?

Most side effects are mild and can include:

  • Nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain 
  • Headache or fatigue
  • Upper respiratory tract infections
Important reminders

To get ready and ensure this treatment is safe and effective you’ll need to complete the following:

  • Submit baseline photos for your skin severity assessment
  • Complete baseline bloodwork, if indicated
  • Provide previous treatment records, if requested
When to contact your Zest Team

Reach out to Zest if you:

  • Develop allergic reactions or infections
  • Notice unusual joint pain, vision changes, or unexpected symptoms
Have more questions?

Contact your Zest care team by texting (865)-426-1746 or sending a chat message from your portal. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. Together, let’s work toward relief and clear skin!

OTEZLA is a registered trademark of Amgen Inc.

Third party trademarks used herein are trademarks of their respective owners.

Last updated: November 2025

Zest Health - Otezla Dose Reduction

(Apremilast)
What is Otezla and how does dose reduction work?
Am I a candidate for dose reduction?
Reduced Dosing Schedule
Standard dose
Step 1 dose reduction
Step 2 dose reduction
Scheduled treatment break1

What to expect
What are the benefits of dose reduction?
Are there risks to dose reduction?
Have more questions?

Contact your Zest care team by texting (865)-426-1746 or sending a chat message from your portal. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. Together, let’s work toward relief and clear skin!