Diltzac and Otezla

• Generic Name: diltiazem
• Dosage Forms: capsule, extended release
• Other Brand Names: Cardizem, Cartia XT, Dilacor XR, Dilt-CD, Diltia XT, Diltzac, Matzim LA, Taztia XT, Tiazac, Cardizem CD, Dilt-XR, Tiazac, Cardizem LA, Tiazac Extended Release Capsules

Diltiazem is used alone or together with other medicines to treat angina (severe chest pain) or hypertension (high blood pressure). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.

Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker. It works by affecting the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. As a result, diltiazem relaxes the blood vessels and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart while reducing its workload.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: apremilast
• Dosage Forms: tablet, film coated
• Other Brand Names: Otezla, Otezla Starter Pack

Otezla (apremilast) inhibits an enzyme within your immune system that can affect certain cells and contribute to inflammation in the body.

Otezla is used to treat the symptoms of active psoriatic arthritis in adults.

Otezla can relieve tenderness and swelling in and around the joints, but this medicine is not a cure for psoriatic arthritis.

Otezla is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in people who may also receive phototherapy or other treatments for psoriasis.

Otezla is also used to treat adults with oral ulcers associated with Behçet’s Disease.