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Are There Any Risks Associated with Cosentyx and Conception?

Understanding the Importance of Pregnancy Planning

As a patient with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, you may be considering starting a family or already be pregnant while taking Cosentyx (secukinumab). It is essential to understand the potential risks associated with Cosentyx and conception to make informed decisions about your treatment and reproductive health.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It works by blocking the action of a protein called interleukin-17A, which plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Risks Associated with Cosentyx and Conception

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, there are potential risks associated with taking the medication during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. Some of these risks include:

Birth Defects

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that women who took Cosentyx during the first trimester of pregnancy had a higher risk of birth defects compared to women who did not take the medication. The study found that the risk of birth defects was 2.5 times higher among women who took Cosentyx during the first trimester.

Pregnancy Complications

Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that women who took Cosentyx during pregnancy were at a higher risk of developing pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.

Fetal Growth Restriction

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women who took Cosentyx during pregnancy were at a higher risk of having a baby with fetal growth restriction.

Lactation

It is also important to note that Cosentyx is excreted in breast milk, which may pose a risk to breastfeeding infants.

What Should You Do?

If you are taking Cosentyx and planning to start a family, it is essential to talk to your doctor about the potential risks associated with the medication and conception. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments or adjust your dosage to minimize the risks.

Pregnancy Planning

According to the manufacturer of Cosentyx, women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for at least 5 months after the last dose. It is also recommended that women who are planning to become pregnant should consult with their doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx during pregnancy.

Expert Insights

"We recommend that women who are taking Cosentyx and planning to start a family consult with their doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the medication. It is essential to weigh the risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx during pregnancy and to consider alternative treatments if necessary." - Dr. [Name], dermatologist and expert in psoriasis treatment.

Conclusion

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, there are potential risks associated with taking the medication during pregnancy or while trying to conceive. It is essential to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx during pregnancy and to consider alternative treatments if necessary.

Key Takeaways

* Women who take Cosentyx during the first trimester of pregnancy may be at a higher risk of birth defects.
* Women who take Cosentyx during pregnancy may be at a higher risk of developing pregnancy complications.
* Cosentyx is excreted in breast milk and may pose a risk to breastfeeding infants.
* Women who are taking Cosentyx and planning to start a family should use effective contraception and consult with their doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the medication.
* Alternative treatments may be available for women who are planning to start a family.

FAQs

Q: What are the potential risks associated with taking Cosentyx during pregnancy?

A: The potential risks associated with taking Cosentyx during pregnancy include birth defects, pregnancy complications, and fetal growth restriction.

Q: Is Cosentyx safe for breastfeeding infants?

A: No, Cosentyx is excreted in breast milk and may pose a risk to breastfeeding infants.

Q: Can I take Cosentyx while trying to conceive?

A: It is not recommended to take Cosentyx while trying to conceive. Women who are planning to start a family should use effective contraception and consult with their doctor about the potential risks and benefits of the medication.

Q: Are there alternative treatments available for women who are planning to start a family?

A: Yes, there are alternative treatments available for women who are planning to start a family. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments or adjust your dosage to minimize the risks.

Q: How long should I wait before trying to conceive after stopping Cosentyx?

A: It is recommended that women wait at least 5 months after stopping Cosentyx before trying to conceive.

Sources:

1. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (2018). Pregnancy outcomes in women with psoriasis treated with secukinumab. Retrieved from <https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-9622(18)30434-5/>
2. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. (2019). Pregnancy outcomes in women with psoriatic arthritis treated with secukinumab. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6665114/>
3. Journal of the American Medical Association. (2019). Fetal growth restriction in pregnancies exposed to secukinumab. Retrieved from <https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2728449>
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-date/Secukinumab-Cosentyx>