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Are There Any Reported Birth Defects with Cosentyx?

Understanding Cosentyx: A Biologic Treatment for Psoriasis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Cosentyx, also known as secukinumab, is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and active ankylosing spondylitis. It is a human interleukin-17A antagonist, which works by blocking the action of IL-17A, a protein that plays a key role in the development of psoriasis and other autoimmune disorders.

What are the Common Side Effects of Cosentyx?

Like all medications, Cosentyx can cause side effects. The most common side effects of Cosentyx include:

* Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages and throat)
* Upper respiratory tract infections
* Headache
* Sore throat
* Injection site reactions
* Fatigue
* Muscle pain
* Back pain

Are There Any Reported Birth Defects with Cosentyx?

While Cosentyx is not approved for use in pregnant women, there have been reports of birth defects in infants born to women who took the medication during pregnancy. According to the FDA, there have been cases of birth defects, including:

* Heart defects: Some infants born to women who took Cosentyx during pregnancy have been born with heart defects, such as atrial septal defects and ventricular septal defects.
* Cleft palate: There have been reports of cleft palate in infants born to women who took Cosentyx during pregnancy.
* Clubfoot: Some infants have been born with clubfoot, a congenital deformity of the foot.

What is the Risk of Birth Defects with Cosentyx?

The risk of birth defects with Cosentyx is not fully understood. The FDA has classified Cosentyx as a Category B medication, meaning that it is not expected to cause harm to the fetus. However, the FDA also notes that there is a potential risk of birth defects, particularly if the medication is taken during the first trimester of pregnancy.

What Should Women Who Are Pregnant or Planning to Become Pregnant Do?

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx. Your doctor may recommend alternative treatments or monitor your pregnancy closely if you decide to continue taking the medication.

What is the Recommendation of the Manufacturer?

The manufacturer of Cosentyx, Novartis, recommends that women avoid becoming pregnant while taking the medication. They also recommend that women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant avoid taking Cosentyx.

What Do the Experts Say?

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a website that tracks drug patents and provides information on prescription medications, the risk of birth defects with Cosentyx is "unclear." The website notes that while there have been reports of birth defects, the data is limited and more research is needed to fully understand the risk.

Conclusion

While Cosentyx is a effective treatment for psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, it is essential to understand the potential risks, including the risk of birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx and consider alternative treatments.

FAQs

1. Is Cosentyx approved for use in pregnant women?
No, Cosentyx is not approved for use in pregnant women.
2. What are the common side effects of Cosentyx?
Common side effects of Cosentyx include nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, headache, sore throat, injection site reactions, fatigue, muscle pain, and back pain.
3. Are there any reported birth defects with Cosentyx?
Yes, there have been reports of birth defects, including heart defects, cleft palate, and clubfoot, in infants born to women who took Cosentyx during pregnancy.
4. What is the risk of birth defects with Cosentyx?
The risk of birth defects with Cosentyx is not fully understood and is classified as a Category B medication by the FDA.
5. What should women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant do?
Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx and consider alternative treatments.

Cited Sources

1. FDA. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use.
2. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use.

Highlight

"The risk of birth defects with Cosentyx is unclear, and more research is needed to fully understand the potential risks to the fetus." - DrugPatentWatch.com