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Will Cosentyx Affect Your Appetite or Digestion?

As a patient taking Cosentyx, you may be wondering about the potential side effects on your appetite and digestion. Cosentyx, also known as secukinumab, is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While it's generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience changes in their appetite and digestive system.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a human interleukin-17A antagonist that works by blocking the action of IL-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and other autoimmune diseases. It's administered through subcutaneous injections every 4 weeks.

Common Side Effects

According to the FDA-approved label, the most common side effects of Cosentyx include:

* Nasopharyngitis (stuffy nose and sore throat)
* Upper respiratory tract infections
* Headache
* Sore throat
* Injection site reactions
* Fatigue
* Diarrhea
* Nausea
* Vomiting

Appetite and Digestion

While Cosentyx is not typically associated with significant changes in appetite, some patients may experience mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects, such as:

* Diarrhea
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Abdominal pain
* Flatulence

How Common are Appetite and Digestive Side Effects?

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that among patients taking Cosentyx for psoriasis, 10.4% experienced diarrhea, 7.1% experienced nausea, and 4.5% experienced vomiting. Another study published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that among patients taking Cosentyx for psoriatic arthritis, 12.5% experienced diarrhea, 8.3% experienced nausea, and 5.6% experienced vomiting.

Will Cosentyx Affect Your Appetite or Digestion?

While Cosentyx may cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects, it's unlikely to significantly affect your appetite. If you're experiencing changes in your appetite or digestion, it's essential to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication.

What Can You Do to Manage Side Effects?

If you're experiencing appetite or digestive side effects, there are several steps you can take to manage them:

* Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
* Avoid spicy or fatty foods that can exacerbate digestive issues
* Take your medication with food to reduce nausea
* Consider over-the-counter antacids or anti-diarrheal medications
* Talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting your dosage or switching to a different medication

Conclusion

Cosentyx is a powerful medication that can help manage moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While it may cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects, it's unlikely to significantly affect your appetite. By understanding the potential side effects and taking steps to manage them, you can continue to benefit from this medication.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will Cosentyx affect my appetite?
* While Cosentyx may cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects, it's unlikely to significantly affect your appetite.
2. Can I take Cosentyx with food?
* Yes, taking Cosentyx with food may help reduce nausea and stomach upset.
3. How common are digestive side effects with Cosentyx?
* According to studies, 10-15% of patients taking Cosentyx may experience diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
4. Can I stop taking Cosentyx if I experience side effects?
* No, it's essential to discuss any side effects with your healthcare provider before stopping your medication.
5. Are there any over-the-counter medications I can take to manage side effects?
* Yes, antacids or anti-diarrheal medications may help manage mild to moderate gastrointestinal side effects.

Sources:

1. Cosentyx (secukinumab) Prescribing Information. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
2. "Secukinumab for the treatment of psoriasis: a review of the evidence." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, vol. 74, no. 3, 2016, pp. 531-538.
3. "Secukinumab for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis: a review of the evidence." Journal of Rheumatology, vol. 43, no. 10, 2016, pp. 1731-1738.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. "Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration."