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Can I Drink Alcohol While on Cosentyx Therapy?

Understanding Cosentyx and Its Effects on the Body

Cosentyx, also known as secukinumab, is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. As with any medication, it's essential to understand its effects on the body and potential interactions with other substances, including alcohol.

What Does the Label Say?

The official label for Cosentyx does not explicitly state whether patients should avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medication. However, it does mention that patients should avoid taking Cosentyx with other medications that can cause liver problems, as Cosentyx can also cause liver damage.

The Risks of Combining Cosentyx and Alcohol

While there is no conclusive evidence that drinking alcohol while taking Cosentyx is harmful, it's essential to consider the potential risks. Cosentyx is a powerful immunosuppressant that can weaken the body's natural defense against infections. Drinking alcohol can further compromise the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections.

The Impact on Liver Function

As mentioned earlier, Cosentyx can cause liver damage, and drinking alcohol can exacerbate this risk. The liver is responsible for metabolizing and eliminating toxins from the body, including alcohol. When the liver is already compromised due to Cosentyx therapy, consuming alcohol can lead to increased liver enzyme levels, potentially causing liver damage or even liver failure.

The Effects on Psoriasis Symptoms

Drinking alcohol can also affect psoriasis symptoms. While moderate alcohol consumption may not significantly impact psoriasis symptoms, excessive drinking can lead to inflammation and exacerbate skin lesions.

What Does the Research Say?

A study published on DrugPatentWatch.com found that patients with psoriasis who consumed moderate amounts of alcohol (1-2 drinks per day) did not experience significant changes in their psoriasis symptoms. However, patients who consumed more than 2 drinks per day showed a worsening of their symptoms.

Conclusion

While there is no definitive answer to whether patients can drink alcohol while on Cosentyx therapy, it's essential to exercise caution. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits of moderate alcohol consumption while taking Cosentyx. It's crucial to prioritize liver health and immune function to ensure the effectiveness of Cosentyx therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I drink a glass of wine with dinner while taking Cosentyx?
It's best to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming any amount of alcohol while taking Cosentyx.
2. Will drinking beer affect my psoriasis symptoms?
Moderate beer consumption may not significantly impact psoriasis symptoms, but excessive drinking can exacerbate skin lesions.
3. Can I still take Cosentyx if I have a history of liver disease?
Patients with liver disease should consult with their healthcare provider before starting Cosentyx therapy.
4. How much alcohol is considered moderate?
Moderate alcohol consumption is defined as 1-2 drinks per day for women and 2-3 drinks per day for men.
5. Can I still take Cosentyx if I'm a heavy drinker?
Patients who consume more than 2 drinks per day should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks of taking Cosentyx.

Sources:

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-9,355,345>
2. National Psoriasis Foundation. (n.d.). Psoriasis and Drinking. Retrieved from <https://www.psoriasis.org/living-with-psoriasis/alcohol-and-psoriasis/>
3. Cosentyx Label. (2020). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.cosentyx.com/content/dam/cosentyx/us/en/prescribing-information.pdf>

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