Does Otezla Cause Mood Swings?

The FDA reports taking Otezla (apremilast) can result in an increase in “adverse reactions of depression.” People with a history of depression and/or suicidal ideation or behaviors should inform their doctor before taking Otezla. Prescribing physicians, according to the FDA, should determine all potential risks and benefits of Otezla, especially for patients with a similar medical history.

The FDA also advises patients taking Otezla, as well as their family and doctor, should be cautious about the following side effects related to mood:

The emergence or worsening of depression
The emergence or worsening of suicidal thoughts and/or behavior
Changes in mood

Patients who notice such symptoms should confide in their prescribing physician immediately.

What are the side effects of Otezla?

For treatment for psoriatic arthritis, according to the FDA, during a 0 to 16 week placebo-controlled period of three controlled clinical trials, 1% of people treated with Otezla reported experiencing depression or a depressed mood, while 0.8% of people treated with a placebo did.

For treatment for psoriasis, the FDA reported, during a 0 to 16 week placebo-controlled period of three controlled clinical trials, 1.3% of people treated with Otezla reported experiencing depression or a depressed mood, while 0.4% of people treated with a placebo did.

Keep in mind that mood swings, mood changes, and depression are only a few of the potential side effects of taking Otezla. Before starting treatment with Otezla, talk with your doctor about your medical history, as well as your risk of experiencing side effects. If you have a history of depression and/or suicidal actions or thoughts, make sure your doctor knows.

For more information about the side effects of Otezla, please visit our side effects page.

Disclaimer:Â this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit ourÂ Terms of Use page.

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Julia Quade

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Julia is a Web Content Writer for Drug Genius, where she is responsible for researching and writing about current medical topics, including pharmaceutical drug information. In 2017, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia with an emphasis in Magazine Editing. During her undergrad, Julia worked as an education reporter for the local city newspaper, the Columbia Missourian, and as a contributing writer for student-run Vox Magazine. She has also worked on various freelance projects since graduating. She currently resides in St. Louis.