New treatment for psoriatic arthritis – apremilast – recommended for routine NHS use

A new oral treatment for psoriatic arthritis has been approved for use by the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

The regulatory body has recommended that apremilast (Otezla) can be used to treat adults with active psoriatic arthritis. People who will qualify for apremilast are those who have had an inadequate response to (or are unable to tolerate treatment with) disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. They must also have peripheral arthritis with three or more tender joints and three or more swollen joints.

Apremilast is the first oral psoriatic arthritis treatment of its kind to be approved for NHS use.

How does it work?

Apremilast reduces the activity of a particular enzyme that drives the inflammation associated with psoriatic arthritis, and so reduces the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis.

Trials have shown that apremilast helps to relieve swollen and tender joints and improves physical function.

“Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic disease that causes significant strain on NHS resources,” explains Dr Helena Marzo-Ortega who is involved in the work. “Addressing the symptoms of both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, the availability of Otezla on the NHS marks a major milestone in the management of psoriatic arthritis.”

For more in-depth features, interviews and information, subscribe to Arthritis Digest magazine, a popular title that’s published six times a year. Click here for the digital version or tel 0845 643 8470 to order your had copy. You’ll know what your doctor is talking about, what new drugs are in the pipeline and be up to date on helpful products.