Apremilast
Apremilast
Apremilast (pronounced: ap-rem-i-last) is an oral small-molecule inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) that is under investigation for its potential to treat various types of inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Etymology
The name "Apremilast" is derived from the chemical structure of the drug. "Ap" refers to the acetylenic peak, "remi" refers to the remainder of the molecule, and "last" refers to the last molecule in the series of compounds synthesized.
Usage
Apremilast is used to treat adults with active psoriatic arthritis, a form of arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis. It is also used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in people who may benefit from taking tablets or capsules (systemic therapy) or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet or UV light).
Mechanism of Action
Apremilast works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4). This enzyme plays a significant role in the process of inflammation by breaking down a molecule called cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). By inhibiting PDE4, Apremilast increases the levels of cAMP within immune cells, thereby reducing the production of inflammatory substances and controlling inflammation.
Related Terms
- Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4): An enzyme that plays a significant role in the process of inflammation.
- Inflammation: A process by which the body's white blood cells and substances they produce protect us from infection with foreign organisms, such as bacteria and viruses.
- Psoriasis: A common skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: A form of arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Apremilast
- Wikipedia's article - Apremilast
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