Otezla (Apremilast) - New Tablet Treatment for Psoriasis Made Available by NICE

Otezla (apremilast) is made available for the treatment of severe psoriasis in England and Wales.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has today published a positive ‘final appraisal determination’ on Otezla (apremilast) to treat severe psoriasis. The decision is the conclusion of a NICE Rapid Review and ensures that people with psoriasis in England and Wales join those in Scotland, where Otezla was recommended by the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) last year.

Otezla is an oral (tablet) treatment for psoriasis, and works by reducing the activity of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), which is involved in the process of inflammation. By reducing the activity of this enzyme, Otezla can help to control the inflammation associated with psoriasis, and therefore reduce the signs and symptoms of the condition. No other treatment currently available for psoriasis works in this way, and so this represents a real new option for people living with the condition.

NICE has recommended Otezla for use in England and Wales as an option for treating chronic plaque psoriasis in adults whose condition has not responded to other systemic therapies, or when these treatments cannot be used. Those eligible for Otezla must also have psoriasis that is classified as ‘severe’.

Carla Renton, Information and Communications Manager at the Psoriasis Association remarked: “This decision is welcomed by the Psoriasis Association. People with psoriasis have a chronic and complex condition that can have a profound effect on quality of life and mental wellbeing, as well as physical health. An increase in the choice of treatment options for people with psoriasis is invaluable in helping them regain control of their condition and of their day to day lives.”