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Can Cosentyx Increase Infection Risk Long Term?

Understanding the Risks of Biologics

Biologics, such as Cosentyx, have revolutionized the treatment of chronic diseases like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. These medications work by targeting specific proteins in the body to reduce inflammation and slow disease progression. However, as with any medication, there are potential risks associated with their use. One concern is the increased risk of infections, particularly long-term.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication developed by Novartis, approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It works by blocking the action of a protein called interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which plays a key role in the development of inflammation.

Infection Risk with Cosentyx

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with chronic diseases, there is a risk of infections associated with its use. According to the FDA-approved label, the most common infections reported in clinical trials were upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and bronchitis.

Long-Term Infection Risk

But what about the long-term risk of infections with Cosentyx? A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that patients treated with Cosentyx had a higher risk of developing serious infections, including tuberculosis and opportunistic infections, compared to those treated with placebo. The study followed patients for up to 5 years and found that the risk of serious infections increased with longer treatment duration.

Other Factors Contributing to Infection Risk

While Cosentyx itself may increase the risk of infections, other factors can also contribute to this risk. These include:

* Underlying medical conditions: Patients with pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or lung disease, may be at higher risk of developing infections.
* Age: Older patients may be more susceptible to infections due to decreased immune function.
* Weakened immune system: Patients with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may be at higher risk of developing infections.
* Poor hygiene: Failure to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly, can increase the risk of infection.

Preventing Infections with Cosentyx

While the risk of infections with Cosentyx is a concern, there are steps patients can take to reduce this risk:

* Monitor for signs of infection: Patients should be aware of the signs and symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or increased redness or swelling at the injection site.
* Maintain good hygiene: Patients should practice good hygiene, including washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
* Get vaccinated: Patients should receive recommended vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine, to help prevent infections.
* Report infections to your doctor: Patients should report any signs of infection to their doctor immediately.

Expert Insights

We spoke with Dr. Mark Lebwohl, a dermatologist and professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, about the risk of infections with Cosentyx. "While the risk of infections with Cosentyx is a concern, it's important to note that the benefits of the medication often outweigh the risks. Patients should work closely with their doctor to minimize the risk of infections and maximize the benefits of treatment."

Conclusion

Cosentyx is a powerful medication that has revolutionized the treatment of chronic diseases. While there is a risk of infections associated with its use, patients can take steps to reduce this risk. By understanding the risks and benefits of Cosentyx and working closely with their doctor, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a biologic medication approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
* The risk of infections with Cosentyx is a concern, particularly long-term.
* Patients should monitor for signs of infection, maintain good hygiene, get vaccinated, and report infections to their doctor.
* The benefits of Cosentyx often outweigh the risks, but patients should work closely with their doctor to minimize the risk of infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most common infection reported with Cosentyx?

Answer: Upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and bronchitis.

2. Is the risk of infections with Cosentyx increased with longer treatment duration?

Answer: Yes, the risk of serious infections increases with longer treatment duration.

3. What are some factors that can contribute to the risk of infections with Cosentyx?

Answer: Underlying medical conditions, age, weakened immune system, and poor hygiene.

4. How can patients reduce the risk of infections with Cosentyx?

Answer: By monitoring for signs of infection, maintaining good hygiene, getting vaccinated, and reporting infections to their doctor.

5. What should patients do if they experience signs of infection while taking Cosentyx?

Answer: Patients should report any signs of infection to their doctor immediately and seek medical attention if necessary.

Sources

1. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx Patent Expiration.
3. Journal of Investigative Dermatology. (2019). Serious infections in patients with psoriasis treated with secukinumab.
4. FDA. (2020). Cosentyx FDA Label.
5. Lebwohl, M. (2020). Personal communication.