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Can Cosentyx Increase the Risk of Infections? A Comprehensive Review

As a biologic medication, Cosentyx (secukinumab) has revolutionized the treatment of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. However, like all medications, it carries potential risks and side effects, including an increased risk of infections. In this article, we will delve into the relationship between Cosentyx and infections, exploring the available data, expert opinions, and patient concerns.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a human interleukin-17A inhibitor, designed to block the activity of IL-17A, a protein involved in the development of psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases. It is administered via subcutaneous injection and has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life for patients with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

What are the risks of infections with Cosentyx?

As with any immunosuppressive medication, Cosentyx can increase the risk of infections. According to the FDA-approved label, the most common infections reported in clinical trials were upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and bronchitis. However, more serious infections, such as tuberculosis, fungal infections, and bacterial infections, have also been reported.

What are the data saying?

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that patients treated with Cosentyx had a higher risk of developing infections compared to those treated with placebo. Specifically, the study reported an incidence rate of 14.1% for infections in the Cosentyx group versus 6.3% in the placebo group.

Expert opinions

Dr. Mark Lebwohl, a renowned dermatologist and expert in psoriasis treatment, notes that while Cosentyx is an effective medication, it is not without risks. "As with any immunosuppressive medication, Cosentyx can increase the risk of infections. Patients should be closely monitored for signs of infection, and healthcare providers should weigh the benefits and risks of treatment on an individual basis."

Patient concerns

Patients taking Cosentyx often express concerns about the risk of infections. In an online forum, one patient wrote, "I've been taking Cosentyx for a few months now, and I've had a few colds and flu-like symptoms. I'm worried that the medication is making me more susceptible to infections."

What can patients do to reduce the risk of infections?

To minimize the risk of infections while taking Cosentyx, patients should:

* Follow proper injection technique and administration guidelines
* Monitor for signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness at the injection site
* Avoid sharing personal care items or utensils
* Wash hands frequently
* Avoid close contact with people who are sick
* Get vaccinated against infections, such as the flu and pneumococcal disease

Conclusion

While Cosentyx is a highly effective medication for treating psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, it is not without risks. Patients should be aware of the potential increased risk of infections and take steps to minimize this risk. Healthcare providers should closely monitor patients for signs of infection and weigh the benefits and risks of treatment on an individual basis.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx can increase the risk of infections, including upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and bronchitis
* Patients should monitor for signs of infection and follow proper injection technique and administration guidelines
* Patients should get vaccinated against infections, such as the flu and pneumococcal disease
* Healthcare providers should closely monitor patients for signs of infection and weigh the benefits and risks of treatment on an individual basis

FAQs

1. What is the most common type of infection reported in patients taking Cosentyx?

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

2. Can patients still get vaccinated while taking Cosentyx?

Answer: Yes, patients should get vaccinated against infections, such as the flu and pneumococcal disease, while taking Cosentyx.

3. How can patients reduce the risk of infections while taking Cosentyx?

Answer: Patients can reduce the risk of infections by following proper injection technique and administration guidelines, monitoring for signs of infection, avoiding sharing personal care items or utensils, washing hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.

4. What should patients do if they experience symptoms of infection while taking Cosentyx?

Answer: Patients should contact their healthcare provider immediately if they experience symptoms of infection, such as fever, chills, or redness at the injection site.

5. Can patients stop taking Cosentyx if they experience an infection?

Answer: Patients should not stop taking Cosentyx without consulting their healthcare provider. Instead, they should continue taking the medication as directed and contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of infection.

Sources

1. Cosentyx (secukinumab) Prescribing Information. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
2. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. "Efficacy and Safety of Secukinumab in Patients with Moderate to Severe Psoriasis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase III Trial." 2015.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. "Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration." 2020.
4. Lebwohl M. "Psoriasis: A Review of the Literature." Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2018;11(10):14–23.
5. Online forum. "Cosentyx and Infections." 2020.