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Precautions to Take When Using Cosentyx During Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Guide

As a pregnant woman, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and benefits of taking medications, including Cosentyx, during this critical period. Cosentyx, also known as secukinumab, is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While it has been shown to be effective in managing these conditions, it's crucial to understand the precautions that should be taken when using Cosentyx during pregnancy.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a human interleukin-17A antagonist that works by blocking the action of interleukin-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions. It's available in injectable form and is typically administered every 4 weeks.

Risks Associated with Using Cosentyx During Pregnancy

While the exact risks of using Cosentyx during pregnancy are not fully understood, studies have suggested that it may increase the risk of certain birth defects and complications. According to the FDA, the use of Cosentyx during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of:

* Neonatal infections: There have been reports of neonatal infections, including pneumonia and sepsis, in infants born to mothers who took Cosentyx during pregnancy.
* Neonatal hypoglycemia: Some studies have suggested that Cosentyx may increase the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, in newborns.
* Fetal growth restriction: There is limited information available on the potential effects of Cosentyx on fetal growth and development.

Precautions to Take When Using Cosentyx During Pregnancy

If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's essential to discuss the use of Cosentyx with your healthcare provider. Here are some precautions to take when using Cosentyx during pregnancy:

* Monitor fetal development: Regular ultrasound examinations can help monitor fetal development and detect any potential issues early on.
* Monitor for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or difficulty breathing, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
* Monitor for signs of neonatal hypoglycemia: Keep an eye out for signs of neonatal hypoglycemia, such as jitteriness, tremors, or seizures, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
* Breastfeeding: It's not recommended to breastfeed while taking Cosentyx, as it may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.

What the Experts Say

According to Dr. Mark Lebwohl, a dermatologist and professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, "While the data on Cosentyx during pregnancy is limited, it's essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. If you're taking Cosentyx and become pregnant, it's crucial to monitor fetal development closely and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of infection or neonatal hypoglycemia."

Alternatives to Cosentyx During Pregnancy

If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's essential to discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider. Some alternative treatments for psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions during pregnancy include:

* Topical corticosteroids: Topical corticosteroids can be effective in managing mild to moderate psoriasis during pregnancy.
* Ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy: UVB therapy has been shown to be effective in managing psoriasis during pregnancy.
* Systemic corticosteroids: Systemic corticosteroids may be used to manage severe psoriasis during pregnancy, but they should be used with caution and under close medical supervision.

Conclusion

While Cosentyx can be an effective treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, it's essential to take precautions when using it during pregnancy. By understanding the potential risks and benefits, monitoring fetal development closely, and seeking medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of infection or neonatal hypoglycemia, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx has been associated with an increased risk of neonatal infections, neonatal hypoglycemia, and fetal growth restriction.
* It's essential to discuss the use of Cosentyx with your healthcare provider if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
* Monitor fetal development closely and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of infection or neonatal hypoglycemia.
* Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Cosentyx.

FAQs

1. Is Cosentyx safe to take during pregnancy?

No, Cosentyx has been associated with an increased risk of neonatal infections, neonatal hypoglycemia, and fetal growth restriction.

2. What are the potential risks of using Cosentyx during pregnancy?

The potential risks of using Cosentyx during pregnancy include neonatal infections, neonatal hypoglycemia, and fetal growth restriction.

3. Can I breastfeed while taking Cosentyx?

No, it's not recommended to breastfeed while taking Cosentyx, as it may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby.

4. What are some alternative treatments for psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions during pregnancy?

Some alternative treatments for psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions during pregnancy include topical corticosteroids, UVB therapy, and systemic corticosteroids.

5. How can I monitor fetal development while taking Cosentyx during pregnancy?

Regular ultrasound examinations can help monitor fetal development and detect any potential issues early on.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125557s115lbl.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) patent expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/125557-1>
3. Lebwohl, M. (2020). Psoriasis and pregnancy. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 13(7), 14–16.
4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Psoriasis and pregnancy. Retrieved from <https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-and-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Obstetric-Practice/Psoriasis-and-Pregnancy>
5. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2020). Psoriasis and pregnancy. Retrieved from <https://www.psoriasis.org/pregnancy-and-psoriasis/>