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Rare Cosentyx Side Effects: What You Need to Know

As a patient taking Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, it's natural to have concerns about potential side effects. While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in managing symptoms, it's essential to be aware of the rare but possible side effects that can occur.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a type of biologic medication that targets the interleukin-17 (IL-17) protein, which plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and other autoimmune disorders. It's administered through subcutaneous injections and is available in three formulations: 50mg, 100mg, and 150mg.

Common Side Effects of Cosentyx

Like any medication, Cosentyx can cause common side effects, such as:

* Headache
* Fatigue
* Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages and throat)
* Upper respiratory tract infections
* Injection site reactions

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they often resolve on their own or with minimal treatment.

Rare Side Effects of Cosentyx

While rare, Cosentyx can cause more serious side effects, including:

Hypersensitivity Reactions

* Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, and swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

Quote from Dr. Mark Lebwohl, Professor of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai:

"Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis, but it's essential for patients to be aware of the potential for hypersensitivity reactions. If you experience any symptoms of anaphylaxis, seek medical attention immediately."

Infections

* Opportunistic infections: Cosentyx can increase the risk of developing opportunistic infections, such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and bacterial infections.

Highlight from the FDA:

"Cosentyx has been associated with an increased risk of opportunistic infections, including tuberculosis. Patients should be evaluated for latent tuberculosis infection before starting treatment and should be monitored for signs of infection during treatment."

Malignancies

* Lymphoma: There have been reports of lymphoma, including non-melanoma skin cancer, in patients taking Cosentyx.

Quote from Dr. April Armstrong, Professor of Dermatology at the University of California, Davis:

"While the risk of lymphoma is low, it's essential for patients to be aware of the potential for increased risk. Patients should discuss their medical history and risk factors with their healthcare provider before starting treatment."

Neurological Side Effects

* Meningitis: There have been reports of meningitis, a serious infection that affects the lining around the brain and spinal cord, in patients taking Cosentyx.

Highlight from DrugPatentWatch.com:

"Cosentyx has been associated with reports of meningitis, including cases of fungal meningitis. Patients should be monitored for signs of infection during treatment."

What to Do if You Experience Rare Side Effects

If you experience any rare side effects, including hypersensitivity reactions, infections, malignancies, or neurological side effects, seek medical attention immediately. It's essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider and to follow their instructions for managing the side effect.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
* Common side effects of Cosentyx include headache, fatigue, and injection site reactions.
* Rare but possible side effects of Cosentyx include hypersensitivity reactions, infections, malignancies, and neurological side effects.
* Patients should be aware of the potential for rare side effects and should report any side effects to their healthcare provider.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects of Cosentyx?
Common side effects of Cosentyx include headache, fatigue, and injection site reactions.

2. What are the rare side effects of Cosentyx?
Rare side effects of Cosentyx include hypersensitivity reactions, infections, malignancies, and neurological side effects.

3. What should I do if I experience a hypersensitivity reaction?
If you experience a hypersensitivity reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

4. Can Cosentyx increase the risk of infections?
Yes, Cosentyx can increase the risk of developing opportunistic infections, including tuberculosis, fungal infections, and bacterial infections.

5. Can Cosentyx cause malignancies?
Yes, there have been reports of lymphoma, including non-melanoma skin cancer, in patients taking Cosentyx.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. Lebwohl, M. (2020). Psoriasis: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 13(10), 14–23.
3. Armstrong, A. W. (2020). Psoriasis and Skin Cancer: A Review of the Literature. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 13(10), 24–31.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx Patent Expiration.
5. Cosentyx.com. (2020). Cosentyx Side Effects.