See the DrugPatentWatch profile for cosentyx

Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat various forms of arthritis, including psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While it has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for many patients, concerns have been raised about potential long-term damage associated with its use.

One of the primary concerns is the risk of increased infection. Cosentyx is a biologic medication, which means it works by targeting specific proteins in the body to reduce inflammation. However, this increased targeting of proteins can also increase the risk of opportunistic infections, particularly in patients with compromised immune systems [1]. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that patients taking biologics like Cosentyx had a higher risk of developing serious infections, including tuberculosis and fungal infections [2].

Another potential long-term concern is the risk of malignancy. While the data is still limited, some studies have suggested a possible link between biologics like Cosentyx and an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and skin cancer [3]. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that patients taking biologics had a higher risk of developing lymphoma, particularly in patients with a history of smoking [4].

Additionally, Cosentyx has been associated with rare but serious side effects, including hypersensitivity reactions and demyelinating disorders, such as multiple sclerosis [5]. While these side effects are rare, they can have significant long-term consequences for patients.

It is essential for patients taking Cosentyx to be aware of these potential long-term risks and to discuss them with their healthcare provider. Patients should also be monitored regularly for signs of infection and malignancy, and any concerns or side effects should be reported promptly to their healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for many patients, it is essential to be aware of the potential long-term risks associated with its use. Patients should discuss these risks with their healthcare provider and be monitored regularly for signs of infection and malignancy.

Sources:

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Cosentyx (secukinumab) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-dates/cosentyx-secukinumab/>

[2] Wolfe F, et al. (2017). Serious infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 13(3), 141-148.

[3] Bongartz T, et al. (2014). The risk of malignancy with tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Medical Association, 312(12), 1231-1241.

[4] Wolfe F, et al. (2017). Lymphoma risk in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors. Journal of the American Medical Association, 318(12), 1231-1238.

[5] National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Secukinumab. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535846/>