Key takeaways
Skyrizi (risankizumab) and Otezla (apremilast) are both used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, but they work differently and are taken in different ways. Skyrizi is an interleukin antagonist given as an injection, while Otezla is a PDE-4 inhibitor taken by mouth. Skyrizi is a biological medication made from living cells, whereas Otezla is not a biologic and has a generic version that is FDA-approved but not yet available. Skyrizi is typically administered every 2 to 3 months after initial doses, but Otezla requires a daily dosing schedule that starts low and gradually increases to reduce side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Skyrizi can weaken your immune system and increase the risk of infections. Otezla is less likely to cause serious infections but can lead to weight loss and depression. Both medications have their own set of common side effects, with Skyrizi often causing joint pain and Otezla frequently leading to gastrointestinal issues.
