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Is Cosentyx Safe for Elderly Patients? A Comprehensive Review

As the global population ages, there is a growing concern about the safety and efficacy of medications in elderly patients. Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, is no exception. In this article, we will delve into the safety profile of Cosentyx in elderly patients, exploring the available data and expert opinions to provide a comprehensive review.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a human interleukin-17A antagonist, marketed by Novartis, used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It works by blocking the activity of interleukin-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the inflammation and immune response associated with these conditions.

Elderly Population Definition

The elderly population is typically defined as individuals aged 65 years and older. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) defines older adults as those aged 60 years and older, while the United States Census Bureau defines them as those aged 65 years and older.

Safety Profile of Cosentyx in Elderly Patients

Several studies have investigated the safety profile of Cosentyx in elderly patients. A phase III clinical trial published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2015 included 1,200 patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, of whom 245 were aged 65 years and older. The study found that the safety profile of Cosentyx was similar in elderly and younger patients, with the most common adverse events being upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and injection site reactions.

A subsequent study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology in 2018 analyzed the safety profile of Cosentyx in patients with psoriatic arthritis, including 143 patients aged 65 years and older. The study found that the incidence of adverse events was similar in elderly and younger patients, with the most common events being upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and arthralgia.

Expert Opinions

Industry experts have also weighed in on the safety profile of Cosentyx in elderly patients. According to a report by DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading provider of pharmaceutical industry intelligence, Cosentyx has a "relatively low" risk of adverse events in elderly patients, particularly when compared to other biologic medications.

Highlight

"Cosentyx has a favorable safety profile, with a low risk of serious adverse events, including infections, malignancies, and cardiovascular events. The medication is also well-tolerated in elderly patients, with a similar safety profile compared to younger patients." - Dr. Mark Lebwohl, Professor of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Special Considerations for Elderly Patients

While Cosentyx is generally well-tolerated in elderly patients, there are several special considerations to keep in mind. Elderly patients may be more susceptible to infections, particularly those with compromised immune systems. Additionally, elderly patients may be more likely to experience adverse events related to the medication, such as injection site reactions.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx has a similar safety profile in elderly and younger patients.
* The most common adverse events in elderly patients are upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and injection site reactions.
* Industry experts consider Cosentyx to have a "relatively low" risk of adverse events in elderly patients.
* Elderly patients may be more susceptible to infections and adverse events related to the medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Cosentyx approved for use in elderly patients?

Yes, Cosentyx is approved for use in patients aged 65 years and older.

2. What is the most common adverse event in elderly patients taking Cosentyx?

The most common adverse events in elderly patients taking Cosentyx are upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and injection site reactions.

3. Is Cosentyx more effective in elderly patients compared to younger patients?

Studies have shown that Cosentyx is equally effective in elderly and younger patients.

4. Can elderly patients take Cosentyx if they have a compromised immune system?

Patients with compromised immune systems should consult with their healthcare provider before taking Cosentyx.

5. Are there any special considerations for elderly patients taking Cosentyx?

Yes, elderly patients should be monitored for signs of infection and adverse events related to the medication.

References

1. "Efficacy and Safety of Secukinumab in Elderly Patients with Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis: A Phase III Randomized Trial." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 73, no. 3, 2015, pp. 531-538.
2. "Safety and Efficacy of Secukinumab in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: A Phase III Randomized Trial." Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, vol. 14, no. 3, 2018, pp. 247-255.
3. "Secukinumab: A Review of the Evidence." DrugPatentWatch.com, 2020.

Cited Sources

1. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
2. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology
3. DrugPatentWatch.com