The European Commission has licensed Otezla (apremilast), a new oral treatment for moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The product offers an important new option for patients who have failed to respond to other systemic treatments, and does not require pre-screening or regular monitoring. In clinical studies, Otezla has been shown to help improve the appearance of the skin, scalp and nails, reduce itching and joint inflammation and improve quality of life. Wim Souverijns, general manager, Celgene UK and Ireland, said that Otezla “fills a long-standing treatment gap” and offers “an under-served patient population a new, convenient, effective option to help control their condition.”