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Increased Side Effects May Occur with Cosentyx Immunosuppressant Combination: What You Need to Know

As a patient living with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, you may have been prescribed Cosentyx, a biologic medication that targets the interleukin-17 (IL-17) pathway to reduce inflammation and joint damage. While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in managing symptoms, it's essential to understand that combining it with other immunosuppressant medications can increase the risk of side effects.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to IL-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. By blocking IL-17A, Cosentyx reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can help alleviate symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain.

Combining Cosentyx with Other Immunosuppressants

When used alone, Cosentyx has a relatively mild side effect profile. However, when combined with other immunosuppressant medications, such as methotrexate, sulfasalazine, or corticosteroids, the risk of side effects increases. This is because these medications can further suppress the immune system, making it more challenging for your body to recover from the effects of Cosentyx.

Increased Side Effects to Watch Out For

When combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants, you may experience increased side effects, including:

Infections

Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants can increase the risk of infections, such as upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, the incidence of infections was significantly higher in patients receiving Cosentyx and methotrexate compared to those receiving Cosentyx alone (1).

Mucocutaneous Reactions

Mucocutaneous reactions, such as mouth sores, skin rashes, and oral ulcers, are common side effects of Cosentyx. When combined with other immunosuppressants, these reactions can become more severe and widespread.

Liver Enzyme Elevations

Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants can increase the risk of liver enzyme elevations, which can be a sign of liver damage. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, the incidence of liver enzyme elevations was higher in patients receiving Cosentyx and methotrexate compared to those receiving Cosentyx alone (2).

Neurological Side Effects

Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants can increase the risk of neurological side effects, such as headaches, fatigue, and depression.

Increased Risk of Tuberculosis

Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants can increase the risk of developing tuberculosis (TB). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk of TB is higher in patients receiving immunosuppressant medications, including Cosentyx (3).

What Can You Do to Minimize Side Effects?

While combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants can increase the risk of side effects, there are steps you can take to minimize these risks:

Monitor Your Health Closely

Regular monitoring of your health is crucial when taking Cosentyx and other immunosuppressant medications. Work closely with your healthcare provider to monitor your symptoms, blood work, and liver function tests.

Follow Your Medication Regimen

Stick to your medication regimen as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking your medications without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Practice Good Hygiene

Practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of infections. Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom or before eating.

Get Enough Rest

Get enough rest and try to manage stress. Fatigue and stress can exacerbate side effects.

Conclusion

Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressant medications can increase the risk of side effects. While these medications can be effective in managing symptoms, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimize them. By working closely with your healthcare provider and following your medication regimen, you can reduce the risk of side effects and achieve optimal results with Cosentyx.

Key Takeaways

* Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressants can increase the risk of side effects.
* Monitor your health closely and follow your medication regimen to minimize side effects.
* Practice good hygiene and get enough rest to reduce the risk of infections and side effects.
* Work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and adjust your medication regimen as needed.

FAQs

1. What are the common side effects of Cosentyx?

Common side effects of Cosentyx include upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin infections.

2. Can I take Cosentyx with other immunosuppressant medications?

It's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before taking Cosentyx with other immunosuppressant medications. They can help you determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

3. How can I reduce the risk of infections when taking Cosentyx?

Practice good hygiene, get enough rest, and follow your medication regimen to reduce the risk of infections.

4. What are the signs of liver damage when taking Cosentyx?

Signs of liver damage when taking Cosentyx include yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, and fatigue.

5. Can I stop taking Cosentyx if I experience side effects?

Do not stop taking Cosentyx without consulting your healthcare provider first. They can help you adjust your medication regimen or recommend alternative treatments to manage your symptoms.

References

1. "Safety and efficacy of secukinumab in patients with active psoriatic arthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial." Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, vol. 12, no. 3, 2016, pp. 143-152.
2. "Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of secukinumab in patients with active psoriatic arthritis." Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, vol. 56, no. 10, 2016, pp. 1241-1251.
3. "Tuberculosis and immunosuppressive therapy." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. "Secukinumab Patent Expiration." Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8449843>
2. National Psoriasis Foundation. "Cosentyx (secukinumab)." Retrieved from <https://www.psoriasis.org/treatments/cosentyx>
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Tuberculosis and Immunocompromised Hosts." Retrieved from <https://www.cdc.gov/tb/publications/tb-and-immunocompromised-hosts.htm>