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Cosentyx and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know

As a new mother, you're likely concerned about the safety of your baby while breastfeeding. With the increasing use of biologics like Cosentyx, it's natural to wonder if there are any precautions to take when breastfeeding while using this medication. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Cosentyx and breastfeeding, exploring the potential risks and benefits, and providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat various autoimmune disorders, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It's a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker, which works by blocking the action of TNF, a protein that contributes to inflammation in the body.

Is Cosentyx Safe for Breastfeeding Mothers?

According to the manufacturer's prescribing information, Cosentyx is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. The medication is excreted in human milk, and its effects on the infant are unknown. However, the manufacturer does not provide specific guidance on the risks associated with breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx.

What are the Potential Risks?

While there is limited information available on the effects of Cosentyx on breastfeeding infants, there are some potential risks to consider:

* Inflammation: As a TNF blocker, Cosentyx may increase the risk of inflammation in the infant, which could potentially lead to infections or other complications.
* Immune System Suppression: Cosentyx suppresses the immune system, which could potentially affect the infant's ability to fight off infections.
* Unknown Effects on Infant Development: The long-term effects of Cosentyx on infant development are unknown, and it's possible that the medication could affect the infant's growth and development.

What are the Benefits of Breastfeeding While Taking Cosentyx?

While there are potential risks associated with breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx, there are also some benefits to consider:

* Nutritional Benefits: Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that help support infant health and development.
* Bonding and Emotional Benefits: Breastfeeding provides a unique opportunity for bonding and emotional connection between mother and infant.
* Convenience: Breastfeeding can be more convenient than formula-feeding, especially for mothers who are away from home or have limited access to formula.

What are the Alternatives?

If you're concerned about the potential risks associated with breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx, there are some alternatives to consider:

* Expressing and Discarding Milk: You can express your milk and discard it to minimize the amount of medication that enters the infant's system.
* Pumping and Storing Milk: You can pump and store your milk for later use, reducing the need for frequent breastfeeding.
* Formula Feeding: You can consider formula-feeding as an alternative to breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx is not recommended, but it's not necessarily a contraindication either. If you're considering breastfeeding while taking this medication, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits and discuss your options with your healthcare provider. Remember, every mother's situation is unique, and what works for one mother may not work for another.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Cosentyx safe for breastfeeding mothers?

No, Cosentyx is not recommended for use during breastfeeding.

2. What are the potential risks associated with breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx?

The potential risks include inflammation, immune system suppression, and unknown effects on infant development.

3. What are the benefits of breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx?

The benefits include nutritional benefits, bonding and emotional benefits, and convenience.

4. What are the alternatives to breastfeeding while taking Cosentyx?

The alternatives include expressing and discarding milk, pumping and storing milk, and formula-feeding.

5. How can I minimize the risk of medication entering my infant's system while breastfeeding?

You can express and discard milk, pump and store milk, or consider formula-feeding as an alternative.

Sources:

1. Cosentyx Prescribing Information. (2022). Retrieved from <https://www.cosentyx.com/content/dam/cosentyx/us/en/documents/cosentyx-prescribing-information.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Cosentyx Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8,648,076>
3. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Breastfeeding and Medications. Retrieved from <https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/129/3/e827>

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