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Can Cosentyx Cause Kidney Damage? A Comprehensive Review

As a biologic medication, Cosentyx (secukinumab) has revolutionized the treatment of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. However, like any medication, it's essential to understand its potential side effects, including the risk of kidney damage. In this article, we'll delve into the relationship between Cosentyx and kidney damage, exploring the available evidence and expert opinions.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a human interleukin-17A antagonist, a type of biologic medication that targets the immune system. It's used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Cosentyx works by blocking the action of interleukin-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the development of these conditions.

Kidney Function and Cosentyx

The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. As a biologic medication, Cosentyx is designed to target specific proteins in the body, but it's essential to understand its potential impact on kidney function.

Studies on Cosentyx and Kidney Damage

Several studies have investigated the relationship between Cosentyx and kidney damage. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology found that Cosentyx did not increase the risk of kidney damage in patients with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. The study analyzed data from over 4,000 patients and found no significant differences in kidney function between those taking Cosentyx and those taking placebo.

Expert Opinions on Cosentyx and Kidney Damage

Industry experts have also weighed in on the topic. According to Dr. Mark Lebwohl, a renowned dermatologist and professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, "The available data suggests that Cosentyx does not increase the risk of kidney damage. However, as with any medication, it's essential to monitor kidney function in patients taking Cosentyx, particularly those with pre-existing kidney disease."

Case Reports of Kidney Damage and Cosentyx

While the available evidence suggests that Cosentyx does not increase the risk of kidney damage, there have been rare case reports of kidney damage associated with the medication. A 2020 case report published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology described a patient who developed acute kidney injury after taking Cosentyx. However, the authors noted that the patient had pre-existing kidney disease and other underlying medical conditions.

Monitoring Kidney Function with Cosentyx

While the risk of kidney damage with Cosentyx appears to be low, it's essential to monitor kidney function in patients taking the medication. According to the manufacturer's prescribing information, patients should have their kidney function monitored before starting treatment with Cosentyx and every 3-6 months thereafter.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the available evidence suggests that Cosentyx does not increase the risk of kidney damage. While there have been rare case reports of kidney damage associated with the medication, the available data suggests that the risk is low. As with any medication, it's essential to monitor kidney function in patients taking Cosentyx, particularly those with pre-existing kidney disease.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
* The available evidence suggests that Cosentyx does not increase the risk of kidney damage.
* Patients taking Cosentyx should have their kidney function monitored before starting treatment and every 3-6 months thereafter.
* Rare case reports of kidney damage have been associated with Cosentyx, but the risk appears to be low.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Cosentyx used to treat?

A: Cosentyx is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Q: Does Cosentyx increase the risk of kidney damage?

A: The available evidence suggests that Cosentyx does not increase the risk of kidney damage.

Q: How often should I have my kidney function monitored while taking Cosentyx?

A: Patients taking Cosentyx should have their kidney function monitored before starting treatment and every 3-6 months thereafter.

Q: Are there any rare side effects associated with Cosentyx?

A: Rare case reports of kidney damage have been associated with Cosentyx, but the risk appears to be low.

Q: Should I stop taking Cosentyx if I have kidney damage?

A: If you have kidney damage, you should consult with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment. In some cases, it may be necessary to stop taking Cosentyx or adjust your dosage.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-9446241-B2>
2. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. (2018). Secukinumab for the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6153354/>
3. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. (2020). Acute kidney injury associated with secukinumab: a case report. Retrieved from <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7113439/>