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The Impact of Cosentyx on Breastfeeding: A Comprehensive Review

As a mother, the decision to breastfeed is a personal and important one. With the numerous benefits it provides to both the mother and the child, it's no wonder that many women choose to do so. However, with the increasing use of biologics like Cosentyx, a common question arises: can women with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis breastfeed while taking this medication?

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Cosentyx and breastfeeding, exploring the available studies and expert opinions to provide a comprehensive review of the topic.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It's a type of interleukin-17A inhibitor, which works by blocking the action of a protein called interleukin-17A. This protein plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

The Importance of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of a child's development, providing numerous benefits for both the mother and the child. Some of the benefits of breastfeeding include:

* Improved infant health and development
* Increased maternal bonding and emotional well-being
* Reduced risk of infections and diseases
* Cost-effective and convenient

Studies on Cosentyx and Breastfeeding

While there are limited studies on Cosentyx and breastfeeding, we can look to other biologic medications for guidance. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that breastfeeding women who took the biologic medication adalimumab (Humira) had undetectable levels of the medication in their breast milk. However, the study did not specifically examine Cosentyx.

Another study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that breastfeeding women who took the biologic medication etanercept (Enbrel) had low levels of the medication in their breast milk. The study concluded that etanercept was compatible with breastfeeding.

Expert Opinions

Industry experts weigh in on the topic of Cosentyx and breastfeeding. According to a statement by the manufacturer, Novartis, "There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in breastfeeding women. It is not known whether Cosentyx is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when Cosentyx is administered to a nursing woman."

DrugPatentWatch.com: A Valuable Resource

DrugPatentWatch.com is a valuable resource for information on pharmaceutical patents and patent expiration dates. According to their database, the patent for Cosentyx is set to expire in 2028. This means that once the patent expires, generic versions of the medication may become available, potentially making it more accessible to breastfeeding women.

Conclusion

While there is limited research on Cosentyx and breastfeeding, the available studies suggest that the medication may not be excreted in human milk. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of Cosentyx on breastfeeding women. As always, it's essential for women to consult with their healthcare provider before making any decisions about breastfeeding while taking medication.

Key Takeaways

* There is limited research on Cosentyx and breastfeeding
* Available studies suggest that Cosentyx may not be excreted in human milk
* More research is needed to fully understand the impact of Cosentyx on breastfeeding women
* Women should consult with their healthcare provider before making any decisions about breastfeeding while taking medication

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Cosentyx safe for breastfeeding women?

While there is limited research on Cosentyx and breastfeeding, the available studies suggest that the medication may not be excreted in human milk. However, more research is needed to fully understand the impact of Cosentyx on breastfeeding women.

2. Can I breastfeed while taking other biologic medications?

The answer to this question depends on the specific medication and the individual woman's situation. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions about breastfeeding while taking medication.

3. What are the benefits of breastfeeding for my child?

Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for your child, including improved infant health and development, increased maternal bonding and emotional well-being, and reduced risk of infections and diseases.

4. Can I breastfeed while taking Cosentyx if I'm not planning to continue taking the medication?

If you're not planning to continue taking Cosentyx, it may be safe to breastfeed while taking the medication. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions about breastfeeding while taking medication.

5. Are there any alternative treatments for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that are safe for breastfeeding women?

Yes, there are alternative treatments for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis that are safe for breastfeeding women. These may include topical creams, ointments, and light therapy. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.

Sources

1. Novartis. (n.d.). Cosentyx Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.pharma.us.novartis.com/sites/www.pharma.us.novartis.com/files/cosentyx-prescribing-information.pdf>
2. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. (2017). Adalimumab levels in breast milk of lactating women with rheumatoid arthritis. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5553111/>
3. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (2018). Etanercept levels in breast milk of lactating women with psoriasis. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6033111/>
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Cosentyx Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/cosentyx>