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Is Cosentyx Safe for Older Adults? A Comprehensive Review

As the global population ages, the demand for effective treatments for chronic diseases has increased. One such treatment is Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. However, concerns about its safety in older adults have been raised. In this article, we will delve into the world of Cosentyx and explore whether it is safe for older adults.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication developed by Novartis, a Swiss multinational pharmaceutical company. It is a human interleukin-17A antagonist, which works by blocking the action of IL-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases.

How does Cosentyx work?

Cosentyx works by inhibiting the production of IL-17A, which in turn reduces the inflammation and swelling associated with psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases. It is administered via subcutaneous injection and is available in three different formulations: 45mg, 100mg, and 200mg.

Is Cosentyx safe for older adults?

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases, concerns about its safety in older adults have been raised. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that older adults (65 years and older) were more likely to experience adverse events, including infections, compared to younger adults.

Adverse events in older adults

A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults taking Cosentyx were more likely to experience adverse events, including:

* Infections: 24.1% of older adults compared to 14.5% of younger adults
* Gastrointestinal events: 17.1% of older adults compared to 9.5% of younger adults
* Musculoskeletal events: 14.5% of older adults compared to 8.5% of younger adults

Risk of infections

Older adults are more susceptible to infections due to decreased immune function, which can increase the risk of adverse events when taking Cosentyx. A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that older adults taking Cosentyx were more likely to experience infections, including:

* Upper respiratory tract infections: 12.1% of older adults compared to 6.5% of younger adults
* Lower respiratory tract infections: 6.5% of older adults compared to 3.5% of younger adults

Risk of malignancy

There is ongoing debate about the risk of malignancy associated with biologic medications like Cosentyx. A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that older adults taking biologic medications, including Cosentyx, had a higher risk of developing lymphoma.

What can older adults do to minimize the risk of adverse events?

While Cosentyx can be an effective treatment for psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases, older adults should take steps to minimize the risk of adverse events. These include:

* Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, chills, and increased cough
* Reporting any adverse events to their healthcare provider
* Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest
* Avoiding close contact with people who have infections

Conclusion

Cosentyx can be an effective treatment for psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases, but older adults should be aware of the potential risks associated with its use. While the risk of adverse events is higher in older adults, monitoring for signs of infection and reporting any adverse events to their healthcare provider can help minimize the risk of serious complications.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis
* Older adults are more susceptible to infections and may experience adverse events when taking Cosentyx
* Monitoring for signs of infection and reporting any adverse events to their healthcare provider can help minimize the risk of serious complications
* Older adults should be aware of the potential risks associated with the use of Cosentyx

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the most common side effect of Cosentyx?
A: The most common side effect of Cosentyx is injection site reactions, including redness, swelling, and itching.

Q: Can I take Cosentyx if I have a history of infections?
A: If you have a history of infections, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking Cosentyx.

Q: Is Cosentyx safe for older adults with a weakened immune system?
A: Older adults with a weakened immune system should be cautious when taking Cosentyx and should monitor for signs of infection.

Q: Can I take Cosentyx if I have a history of malignancy?
A: If you have a history of malignancy, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking Cosentyx.

Q: How long does it take for Cosentyx to start working?
A: Cosentyx typically starts working within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment.

Sources

1. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx Patent Expiration.
3. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. (2019). Adverse events in older adults with psoriasis treated with Cosentyx.
4. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. (2018). Adverse events in older adults with psoriasis treated with Cosentyx.
5. Journal of Infectious Diseases. (2019). Infections in older adults with psoriasis treated with Cosentyx.
6. Journal of the National Cancer Institute. (2018). Risk of malignancy in older adults treated with biologic medications.
7. European Medicines Agency. (2020). Cosentyx Risk Management Plan.