Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat plaque psoriasis. The drug comes as an oral tablet. It’s usually taken once per day.

Sotyktu is prescribed to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are being considered for phototherapy (light therapy) or systemic (whole-body) treatment.

The active ingredient in Sotyktu is deucravacitinib. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.)

Sotyktu belongs to a group of drugs called immunosuppressants. This article describes the dosage of Sotyktu, as well as its strength and how to take it. To learn more about Sotyktu, see this in-depth article.

This section describes Sotyktu’s usual dosage. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Sotyktu’s form?

Sotyktu is available as an oral tablet.

What strength does Sotyktu come in?

Sotyktu comes in a strength of 6 milligrams (mg).

What are the usual dosages of Sotyktu?

The information below describes the dosage that’s commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for plaque psoriasis

The typical Sotyktu dosage for treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis is 6 mg once per day.

Is Sotyktu used long term?

Yes, Sotyktu is usually used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.

Sotyktu comes as an oral tablet that you’ll swallow whole. You should not crush, cut, or chew Sotyktu tablets. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication.

You can take Sotyktu with or without food.

For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Sotyktu, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also see the “Expiration” section of this article.

Accessible drug containers and labels

Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:

  • have large print
  • use braille
  • feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio

Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.

Let your pharmacist know if you have trouble opening medication bottles. They may have tips to help, or they may be able to supply Sotyktu in an easy-open container.

If you miss a dose of Sotyktu, take it as soon as you remember. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at its usual time. If you’re not sure whether you should take a missed dose, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Sotyktu on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.

Do not take more Sotyktu than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.

What to do in case you take too much Sotyktu

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Sotyktu. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.

Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about Sotyktu’s dosage.

Is Sotyktu’s dosage similar to the dosages of Otezla?

The forms and how often you take each drug are similar. Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) and Otezla (aprelimast) are both oral tablets. You’ll take Sotyktu once per day, but Otezla is typically taken twice per day. People with severe kidney condition may be prescribed an Otezla dose of once per day.

The dose in milligrams for each drug differs. Your doctor will prescribe the drug and the dosage that’s right for you.

To learn more about how these drugs compare, talk with your doctor.

How long does it take for Sotyktu to start working?

Sotyktu starts to work after your first dose. But it may take 16–24 weeks for the drug to have its maximum effect and for you to experience relief of your plaque psoriasis symptoms.

If you have other questions about what to expect from your Sotyktu treatment, talk with your doctor.

The sections above describe the usual dosage provided by the manufacturer. If your doctor recommends Sotyktu for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you should not change your dosage of Sotyktu without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Sotyktu exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage.

Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask your doctor:

  • Should I adjust my dosage of Sotyktu if I have liver or kidney problems?
  • Should my dosage for Sotyku be decreased if I’m scheduled to receive a vaccine?
  • If I get an infection while I am taking Sotyktu, should my dosage be adjusted?

To learn more about Sotyktu, see these articles:

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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.