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Cosentyx and Heart Tests: What You Need to Know

As a patient taking Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, it's essential to stay informed about the recommended heart tests to ensure your overall health and well-being.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor, a type of biologic medication that works by blocking the action of TNF, a protein that contributes to inflammation in the body. It's administered through subcutaneous injections and is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and active ankylosing spondylitis.

Heart Tests and Cosentyx: Why are They Important?

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating various inflammatory conditions, it's essential to monitor the heart health of patients taking the medication. This is because TNF inhibitors, including Cosentyx, have been linked to an increased risk of heart problems, including heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmias.

Recommended Heart Tests for Cosentyx Patients

According to the FDA-approved labeling for Cosentyx, patients should undergo regular heart tests to monitor for potential heart problems. These tests include:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG)

An ECG, also known as an electrocardiogram, is a non-invasive test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It's used to detect abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, and can help identify potential heart problems.

2. Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It's used to assess the structure and function of the heart, including the size and thickness of the heart chambers, and can help identify potential heart problems.

3. Troponin Test

A troponin test is a blood test that measures the levels of troponin, a protein released by the heart muscle in response to injury or damage. Elevated troponin levels can indicate heart damage or inflammation.

4. N-terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) Test

An NT-proBNP test is a blood test that measures the levels of NT-proBNP, a protein released by the heart in response to pressure and volume overload. Elevated NT-proBNP levels can indicate heart failure or other heart problems.

5. Cardiovascular Risk Assessment

A cardiovascular risk assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of a patient's risk factors for heart disease, including age, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and smoking status. This assessment can help identify patients who may be at higher risk for heart problems.

When to Start Heart Tests

According to the FDA-approved labeling for Cosentyx, patients should undergo heart tests at the following times:

1. Before Starting Treatment

Patients should undergo an ECG and echocardiogram before starting treatment with Cosentyx to establish a baseline for future comparisons.

2. During Treatment

Patients should undergo regular ECGs and echocardiograms during treatment with Cosentyx to monitor for potential heart problems.

3. After Stopping Treatment

Patients should undergo an ECG and echocardiogram after stopping treatment with Cosentyx to assess any potential changes in their heart health.

Conclusion

Cosentyx is a powerful medication that can help manage various inflammatory conditions, but it's essential to monitor the heart health of patients taking the medication. By undergoing regular heart tests, patients can help identify potential heart problems early on and take steps to prevent them. As Dr. Mark Genovese, a rheumatologist and clinical professor at the University of Colorado, notes, "Regular monitoring of heart function is crucial for patients taking TNF inhibitors like Cosentyx."

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a TNF inhibitor used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
* Patients taking Cosentyx should undergo regular heart tests to monitor for potential heart problems.
* Recommended heart tests include ECG, echocardiogram, troponin test, NT-proBNP test, and cardiovascular risk assessment.
* Patients should undergo heart tests before starting treatment, during treatment, and after stopping treatment.

FAQs

1. Q: What is the recommended frequency of heart tests for Cosentyx patients?
A: The recommended frequency of heart tests varies depending on the patient's individual risk factors and medical history. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing schedule.

2. Q: Can Cosentyx cause heart problems?
A: Yes, Cosentyx has been linked to an increased risk of heart problems, including heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmias.

3. Q: What are the symptoms of heart problems caused by Cosentyx?
A: Symptoms of heart problems caused by Cosentyx can include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and feet.

4. Q: Can I continue taking Cosentyx if I experience heart problems?
A: Patients who experience heart problems while taking Cosentyx should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action. In some cases, treatment with Cosentyx may need to be discontinued.

5. Q: Are there any alternative treatments for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis that do not carry the same risk of heart problems as Cosentyx?
A: Yes, there are alternative treatments available for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis that do not carry the same risk of heart problems as Cosentyx. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for their individual needs.

Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx Patent Expiration.
3. Genovese, M. C. (2019). TNF Inhibitors and Cardiovascular Risk. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, 15(3), 147-153.
4. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2020). Cosentyx.
5. American College of Rheumatology. (2020). Cosentyx.