I started taking Otezla 2 weeks ago. Is it normal to have so much stomach pain? I have had diarrhea for a few days, is this related to the medication?

Good morning, Madam,

This side effect is expected at the beginning of the treatment. It is important to know that after a few weeks, the side effect tends to diminish. You should simply monitor your weight, make sure that you are not losing weight and that you are able to eat well. Do you also suffer from nausea?

In any case, I advise you to check with your prescribing physician if during the next few days (maximum 3 weeks), your diarrhea is still present and very uncomfortable. Of course, if you lose weight between now and then, I advise you to consult a doctor.

And note that if you stick with the medication, there is a good chance that the side effect will go away and your body will get used to taking the medication. You may then benefit from this treatment, especially if you say your body is not responding to other medications already tried for psoriatic arthritis.

Kind regards,

Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist