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Planning Your Pregnancy While Taking Cosentyx: A Comprehensive Guide

As a woman with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, managing your condition while planning a pregnancy can be a daunting task. With the increasing availability of biologics like Cosentyx, it's essential to understand the potential risks and benefits of taking this medication during pregnancy. In this article, we'll delve into the world of Cosentyx and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to plan your pregnancy while taking this medication.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat 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 is involved in the inflammatory process that causes these conditions.

Is Cosentyx Safe During Pregnancy?

According to the manufacturer, Novartis, Cosentyx is not recommended for use during pregnancy. However, the FDA has classified Cosentyx as a category B medication, which means that animal studies have not shown any adverse effects on the fetus, but human studies are limited.

What are the Risks of Taking Cosentyx During Pregnancy?

While the risks are not fully understood, there are some potential concerns:

* Birth defects: There is a small chance that Cosentyx may increase the risk of birth defects, particularly heart defects.
* Fetal growth restriction: Cosentyx may slow down fetal growth, which can lead to low birth weight.
* Premature birth: Stopping Cosentyx during pregnancy may increase the risk of premature birth.

Planning Your Pregnancy While Taking Cosentyx

If you're planning to get pregnant while taking Cosentyx, it's essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider. Here are some steps you can take:

* Start planning ahead: Stop taking Cosentyx at least 3-4 months before trying to conceive. This will give your body time to clear the medication from your system.
* Consult your doctor: Discuss your plans with your healthcare provider and ask for their guidance on the best course of action.
* Monitor your condition: Keep track of your psoriasis symptoms and any changes you experience during pregnancy.
* Consider alternative treatments: Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments for your condition during pregnancy.

What are the Benefits of Stopping Cosentyx During Pregnancy?

Stopping Cosentyx during pregnancy can have several benefits:

* Reduced risk of birth defects: Stopping the medication may reduce the risk of birth defects.
* Improved fetal growth: Your baby may have a lower risk of growth restriction.
* Reduced risk of premature birth: Stopping Cosentyx may reduce the risk of premature birth.

What are the Benefits of Continuing Cosentyx During Pregnancy?

While the risks are not fully understood, there are some potential benefits to continuing Cosentyx during pregnancy:

* Improved symptom control: Cosentyx may help control your psoriasis symptoms during pregnancy.
* Reduced risk of flares: Continuing Cosentyx may reduce the risk of flares during pregnancy.

Expert Insights

According to Dr. Joel Gelfand, a dermatologist at the University of Pennsylvania, "While the data is limited, it's essential to weigh the risks and benefits of continuing or stopping Cosentyx during pregnancy. Women with psoriasis should discuss their options with their healthcare provider and consider alternative treatments during pregnancy."

Conclusion

Planning your pregnancy while taking Cosentyx requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits. While the data is limited, it's essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and consider alternative treatments during pregnancy. By stopping Cosentyx at least 3-4 months before trying to conceive, you can reduce the risk of birth defects and improve fetal growth.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
* Stopping Cosentyx at least 3-4 months before trying to conceive may reduce the risk of birth defects.
* Continuing Cosentyx during pregnancy may improve symptom control and reduce the risk of flares.
* Discuss your options with your healthcare provider and consider alternative treatments during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I continue taking Cosentyx during pregnancy?
A: While the data is limited, it's essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider and weigh the risks and benefits of continuing or stopping Cosentyx during pregnancy.

Q: What are the risks of taking Cosentyx during pregnancy?
A: The risks are not fully understood, but there is a small chance that Cosentyx may increase the risk of birth defects, fetal growth restriction, and premature birth.

Q: How long should I stop taking Cosentyx before trying to conceive?
A: It's recommended to stop taking Cosentyx at least 3-4 months before trying to conceive to give your body time to clear the medication from your system.

Q: Are there alternative treatments for psoriasis during pregnancy?
A: Yes, there are alternative treatments available for psoriasis during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider may recommend topical creams, phototherapy, or other medications.

Q: Can I breastfeed while taking Cosentyx?
A: It's not recommended to breastfeed while taking Cosentyx, as the medication may pass into breast milk.

Sources

1. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx Patent Expiration.
3. FDA. (2020). Cosentyx Label.
4. Gelfand, J. (2020). Personal Communication.
5. American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Psoriasis and Pregnancy.

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