Given the concerns about living in a high-tick area and having blood pressure issues, Otezla (apremilast) does seem like a reasonable option worth discussing with a doctor. Here's why it might suit the situation well:
- Not a traditional immunosuppressant — Otezla works by blocking a specific enzyme (PDE4) that drives Show Full Answer
Given the concerns about living in a high-tick area and having blood pressure issues, Otezla (apremilast) does seem like a reasonable option worth discussing with a doctor. Here's why it might suit the situation well:
- Not a traditional immunosuppressant — Otezla works by blocking a specific enzyme (PDE4) that drives inflammation, rather than broadly suppressing the immune system like DMARDs such as methotrexate or cyclosporine.
- Lower infection risk — Because it doesn't broadly weaken the immune system, it may carry less risk for someone living in a tick-prone area.
- Less monitoring needed — Unlike methotrexate or cyclosporine, Otezla requires less frequent blood testing.
- Oral medication — No injections required, which some people prefer over biologics. Regarding blood pressure, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) are worth avoiding as a first-line option since they can raise blood pressure — so Otezla sidesteps that concern too.
The known side effects of Otezla to be aware of include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Cold-like symptoms
Bringing these specific concerns — the tick exposure risk and blood pressure — directly to a rheumatologist will help confirm whether Otezla is the right first step. It's a very valid conversation to have!
May 3
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