Can Cosentyx (secukinumab) cause you to catch more colds?
Cosentyx targets IL‑17A, which plays a role in immune defense. By dampening parts of the immune response, Cosentyx can make some infections more likely, including upper respiratory infections such as the common cold. Patients are generally advised to watch for infection symptoms and contact their clinician if they feel unwell.
What should I do if I get a cold while taking Cosentyx?
If you develop cold symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, cough), many people can keep taking their medication if symptoms are mild. The usual approach is to:
- Tell your prescriber you have an infection.
- Watch for worsening symptoms (higher fever, shortness of breath, symptoms that keep escalating).
- Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms become moderate to severe or you have red flags.
Whether to hold the next dose depends on how sick you are and your clinician’s guidance.
Does Cosentyx make colds last longer or turn into more serious infections?
Because Cosentyx can affect immune response, some infections may be harder to clear or may progress in certain people. The key concern is not the cold itself but signs of a more significant infection, such as:
- Fever that persists
- Chest symptoms (wheezing, trouble breathing, significant cough)
- Severe sore throat, sinus pain, or ear pain that worsens
If any of these occur, clinicians typically want to evaluate you sooner rather than later.
When should I call my doctor urgently?
Call urgently or seek urgent care if you have symptoms suggesting a more serious infection, including:
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- High fever or fever lasting more than a few days
- Rapidly worsening symptoms
- Signs of dehydration or inability to keep fluids down
Are there COVID-19 or flu considerations with Cosentyx?
Yes. People on immune-modifying therapies are often treated as higher risk for complications from respiratory viruses. If you test positive for COVID-19 or flu (or are strongly suspected), contact your clinician quickly because antiviral treatments work best when started early.
Can I still get vaccines while on Cosentyx if I’m worried about colds?
Many patients can receive recommended vaccines, but the specific type matters. In general, inactivated vaccines are commonly used, while live vaccines may be avoided. Your prescriber or pharmacist can confirm what’s appropriate for your situation.
Does stopping Cosentyx help during a cold?
Stopping might be considered in some cases, but it can also risk disease flare (for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis). The safest plan is individualized: contact your clinician for advice on whether to delay or hold dosing based on symptom severity.
What are safer ways to prevent colds while on Cosentyx?
Practical steps include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and staying current on vaccines that your clinician recommends. If you’re exposed to someone with flu or COVID-19, ask your prescriber early about what to do.
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If you tell me which condition you’re taking Cosentyx for (psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis) and what symptoms you have (including fever and how many days), I can help you think through when people usually contact their doctor and what questions to ask.