An open-labelled randomised comparative evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and safety of Apremilast versus Methotrexate in the treatment of patients with Chronic plaque psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common, chronic inflammatory,immune mediated, hyperproliferative condition affecting primarily the skin. It is associated with significant reduction in the quality of life. There are several modalities of treatment available but none is satisfactory in acheiving significant clearance of lesions. Apremilast is the new orally active Phosphodiestrase-4 inhibitor found to be effective in treatment of psoriasis with negligible adverse effects and also eithout any need for rotine monitoring of blood parameters. Methotrexate is a well-known drug in the treatment of psoriasis for years. Eventhough there is reduction in the morbidity, it is associated with frequent side effects and patient dissatisfaction. This study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Apremilast in our setting and to compare the same with the conventionally used Methotrexate in the treatment of Chronic Plaque Psoriasis.