Cosentyx (Secukinumab)

Description

Cosentyx (Secukinumab) is an immunosuppressant agent (a class of drugs that reduce, the strength of the body’s immune system). It is typically used to treat children and adults 6 years of age and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis (a long-term skin disease in which the skin cells grow faster than normal). It is also used to treat certain types of arthritis (inflammation of joints such as arthritis of the spine, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis). It may also have other uses.

Additional information

Cosentyx (Secukinumab)'s dosage depends on the condition being treated. Your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a schedule that is more appropriate for you. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. If you forget a dose, contact your pharmacist. COSENTYX is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of a physician. COSENTYX is administered by subcutaneous injection (under the skin). After proper training in subcutaneous injection technique, patients may self-inject COSENTYX if a physician determines that it is appropriate.
WARNING: Secukinumab can make you more likely to get infections or may worsen any current infections. Use with caution in patients with a chronic (prolonged) infection or a history of recurrent (repeated) infection. If an anaphylactic reaction or other serious allergic reaction occurs, discontinue COSENTYX immediately and initiate appropriate therapy. In addition to its desired action, Cosentyx (Secukinumab) may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause infection, nasopharyngitis (the inflammation of the nasal passages and the pharynx, or throat).
It may cause hypercholesterolemia (an excess of cholesterol in the bloodstream). It may cause diarrhea, headache, hypersensitivity reactions, inflammatory bowel disease (inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract).
Contraindications: Serious hypersensitivity reaction to secukinumab or any component of the formulation Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor.
A treatment with Cosentyx (Secukinumab) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Cosentyx (Secukinumab)

Warning

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.