See the DrugPatentWatch profile for cosentyx

Medications to Avoid with Cosentyx: A Comprehensive Guide

As a patient with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis, you may be prescribed Cosentyx, a biologic medication that targets the interleukin-17A (IL-17A) protein. While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life, it's essential to be aware of potential interactions with other medications. In this article, we'll explore the medications that should be avoided with Cosentyx, as well as provide guidance on how to safely use this medication.

Understanding Cosentyx

Before we dive into the medications to avoid, it's essential to understand how Cosentyx works. Cosentyx is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets the IL-17A protein, which plays a key role in the inflammatory process. By blocking IL-17A, Cosentyx reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to a decrease in inflammation and symptoms.

Medications to Avoid with Cosentyx

While Cosentyx is generally well-tolerated, it's essential to avoid certain medications that can increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce its effectiveness. Here are some medications that should be avoided or used with caution:

Live Vaccines

Live vaccines, such as the MMR vaccine, should be avoided while taking Cosentyx. Live vaccines can increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis, and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Vaccine

BCG vaccine, which is used to prevent tuberculosis, should also be avoided while taking Cosentyx. BCG vaccine can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Live Attenuated Vaccines

Live attenuated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, should be avoided while taking Cosentyx. Live attenuated vaccines can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics, such as sulfonamides, should be used with caution while taking Cosentyx. Sulfonamides can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir, should be used with caution while taking Cosentyx. Oseltamivir can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Antifungal Medications

Antifungal medications, such as itraconazole, should be used with caution while taking Cosentyx. Itraconazole can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants, such as phenytoin, should be used with caution while taking Cosentyx. Phenytoin can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, should be used with caution while taking Cosentyx. Corticosteroids can increase the risk of serious infections and may reduce the effectiveness of Cosentyx.

What to Do if You're Taking Cosentyx and Need to Take Another Medication

If you're taking Cosentyx and need to take another medication, it's essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you determine the best course of action and ensure that you're not putting yourself at risk for adverse effects.

Conclusion

Cosentyx is a powerful medication that can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. However, it's essential to be aware of potential interactions with other medications. By avoiding certain medications and using others with caution, you can ensure safe and effective treatment with Cosentyx.

Key Takeaways

* Live vaccines, BCG vaccine, and live attenuated vaccines should be avoided while taking Cosentyx.
* Antibiotics, antiviral medications, antifungal medications, anticonvulsants, and corticosteroids should be used with caution while taking Cosentyx.
* If you're taking Cosentyx and need to take another medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to determine the best course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Can I take Cosentyx with other medications?
A: Yes, but it's essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to determine the best course of action.

2. Q: What medications should I avoid while taking Cosentyx?
A: Live vaccines, BCG vaccine, live attenuated vaccines, antibiotics, antiviral medications, antifungal medications, anticonvulsants, and corticosteroids should be avoided or used with caution.

3. Q: Can I take Cosentyx with over-the-counter medications?
A: Yes, but it's essential to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to determine the best course of action.

4. Q: What should I do if I forget to take my Cosentyx dose?
A: Take your missed dose as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

5. Q: Can I take Cosentyx with herbal supplements?
A: No, it's essential to avoid taking herbal supplements while taking Cosentyx, as they can interact with the medication and increase the risk of adverse effects.

Sources

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use. Retrieved from <https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/125557s012lbl.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8,648,071-B2>
3. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab). Retrieved from <https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/cosentyx-secukinumab>
4. American College of Rheumatology. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab). Retrieved from <https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A-Patient/Cosentyx-Secukinumab>
5. European Medicines Agency. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab). Retrieved from <https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/cosentyx>