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How Does Cosentyx Affect the Liver?

Understanding the Risks and Benefits

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 shown significant efficacy in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for patients, concerns have been raised about its potential impact on liver function. In this article, we will delve into the effects of Cosentyx on the liver, exploring the risks and benefits associated with its use.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a fully human monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a protein involved in the inflammatory response. By blocking IL-17A, Cosentyx reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which helps to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Liver Enzyme Elevations

One of the most common side effects of Cosentyx is an increase in liver enzymes, specifically alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). According to the FDA-approved labeling, liver enzyme elevations were reported in 2.4% of patients treated with Cosentyx, with 0.4% experiencing elevations greater than 5 times the upper limit of normal.

What Causes Liver Enzyme Elevations?

Researchers believe that liver enzyme elevations in Cosentyx-treated patients are likely due to a combination of factors, including:

* Inflammation: Cosentyx's mechanism of action may lead to increased inflammation in the liver, causing enzyme elevations.
* Immune-mediated reactions: The medication may trigger an immune response in the liver, resulting in inflammation and enzyme elevations.
* Metabolic changes: Cosentyx may alter liver metabolism, leading to changes in enzyme activity.

Is Liver Damage a Concern?

While liver enzyme elevations are a common side effect of Cosentyx, liver damage is rare. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, only 0.1% of patients treated with Cosentyx developed liver damage, defined as a liver biopsy showing liver inflammation or fibrosis.

Monitoring Liver Function

To minimize the risk of liver damage, it is essential to monitor liver function regularly in patients treated with Cosentyx. This includes:

* Liver enzyme testing: Patients should undergo regular liver enzyme testing, including ALT and AST levels.
* Liver biopsy: In cases of persistent liver enzyme elevations or liver damage, a liver biopsy may be necessary to assess liver inflammation or fibrosis.

Expert Insights

"We recommend regular liver function monitoring in patients treated with Cosentyx, particularly those with pre-existing liver disease or risk factors for liver damage," says Dr. Mark Genovese, a rheumatologist and expert in the field of psoriatic arthritis. "While liver enzyme elevations are common, liver damage is rare, and early detection and intervention can minimize the risk of serious complications."

Conclusion

Cosentyx is a powerful medication that has revolutionized the treatment of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While liver enzyme elevations are a common side effect, liver damage is rare. By understanding the risks and benefits associated with Cosentyx, patients and healthcare providers can work together to minimize the risk of liver damage and maximize the benefits of treatment.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
* Liver enzyme elevations are a common side effect of Cosentyx, occurring in 2.4% of patients.
* Liver damage is rare, occurring in 0.1% of patients.
* Regular liver function monitoring is essential to minimize the risk of liver damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the most common side effects of Cosentyx?

A: The most common side effects of Cosentyx include upper respiratory infections, nasopharyngitis, and injection site reactions.

Q: How often should I monitor my liver function while taking Cosentyx?

A: Patients should undergo regular liver enzyme testing, including ALT and AST levels, every 3-6 months.

Q: Can I continue taking Cosentyx if I experience liver enzyme elevations?

A: Patients with liver enzyme elevations should work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. In some cases, dose reduction or discontinuation of the medication may be necessary.

Q: Are there any contraindications for taking Cosentyx?

A: Patients with active liver disease, including cirrhosis, should not take Cosentyx.

Q: Can I take Cosentyx if I have a history of liver disease?

A: Patients with a history of liver disease should discuss their medical history with their healthcare provider before starting treatment with Cosentyx.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8415423>
2. FDA.gov. (2022). Cosentyx (Secukinumab) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/125551s113lbl.pdf>
3. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. (2020). Liver Enzyme Elevations in Patients Treated with Secukinumab for Psoriatic Arthritis. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7443114/>
4. Dr. Mark Genovese. (2022). Personal Communication.