Effect of apremilast on cardiovascular risk in psoriasis patients in comparison with methotrexate

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis is a common chronically relapsing inflammatory disorder with cutaneous and rheumatologic manifestations characterized by an increase in risk of cardiovascular diseases. Chronic inflammation in psoriatic patients predisposes them to cardiovascular morbidity. This study was done to compare the change in cardiovascular risk factors who are taking apremilast and methotrexate. Aims and objectives: The aims of this study were as follows: (1) To evaluate the effect on biochemical parameters pertaining to cardiovascular risk in psoriasis patients after 12 weeks of treatment with apremilast in comparison with methotrexate. (2) To compare the efficacy of methotrexate with apremilast in treating chronic plaque psoriasis. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based prospective cohort study included 40 newly diagnosed cases of psoriasis who were divided into two groups – group A (receiving methotrexate) and group B (receiving apremilast) and were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks. The outcome was assessed on the basis of psoriasis area and severity index score and the biochemical parameters. Results: We found a significant decrease in triglycerides, high sensitivity C-reactive protein, and low-density lipoprotein levels in psoriasis patients taking methotrexate and high-density lipoprotein in the apremilast group. Conclusion: On comparing the two drugs, methotrexate is considered to have more cardioprotective action.