It is used to treat a certain type of arthritis (psoriatic arthritis) and is also used to treat a certain type of skin condition (moderate to severe plaque psoriasis). The medicine belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors. For the treatment of psoriatic arthritis, it decreases pain and swelling, and may help improve flexibility in the affected joints. For the treatment of plaque psoriasis, it may help to reduce the redness, thickening, and scaling of the skin that occurs because of this condition.
The medicine is also used to treat mouth sores in people who have Behcet’s disease. It helps to reduce the pain and improve the healing of the mouth sores. We need to take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by our doctor, usually twice daily. The manufacturer provides direction not to crush, split, or chew the tablet before taking it. That’s why, many similar drugs (immediate-release tablets) can be crushed, split, or chewed. Follow our doctor’s directions on how to take this medication.
The dosage is based on our medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce our risk of side effects, our doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase our dose. Follow our doctor’s instructions carefully. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help remember, take it at the same times each day. Tell our doctor if our condition does not improve or if it worsens.
