Can you take Cosentyx (secukinumab) if you have the flu?
Cosentyx (secukinumab) is an immune-targeting medicine (it blocks IL‑17A). If you currently have the flu or another acute infection, clinicians commonly advise delaying the next dose until you’re better, because suppressing part of the immune response can make it harder to fight infections and can increase the risk that an illness worsens.
If you have flu symptoms now, the safest next step is to contact the prescriber or a pharmacist for guidance on whether to hold your next Cosentyx dose. Seek urgent care if you have breathing trouble, chest pain, confusion, severe dehydration, or you’re at high risk for complications (for example, older age or major chronic illnesses).
What if the flu gets worse after starting Cosentyx?
If you develop worsening fever, shortness of breath, or symptoms that don’t improve, don’t wait for your next scheduled dose—get medical advice right away. Your clinician may:
- pause Cosentyx temporarily
- evaluate for complications (such as pneumonia or secondary bacterial infection)
- recommend antiviral treatment if it’s early enough and you meet criteria
Do I need antivirals for flu while on Cosentyx?
People on immune-modifying therapies are often considered higher risk for flu complications, so antiviral treatment (like oseltamivir) may be considered sooner rather than later. Whether you qualify depends on your age, health conditions, symptom start date, and local guidance. Calling your doctor promptly matters, because antivirals work best when started early.
Does Cosentyx affect COVID-19 or other infections like flu?
Because Cosentyx lowers IL‑17–mediated immune responses, it can increase susceptibility to certain infections (and infections can be more complicated). The practical approach is similar across respiratory viral illnesses: contact your clinician early, monitor closely, and ask whether to hold dosing until you recover.
What should I do about missed Cosentyx doses?
If your doctor tells you to hold the dose during the flu, follow their specific plan for when to restart. Restart timing is individualized based on:
- how severe the infection is
- when fever resolves and symptoms improve
- your underlying condition (psoriasis/psoriatic arthritis/ankylosing spondylitis, etc.)
Are there any “flu-like” symptoms that are not actually flu?
Cosentyx can also be associated with infections and inflammatory issues that can look like viral illness. If symptoms are persistent, atypical, or you’re having high fever, it’s worth getting evaluated to rule out pneumonia, strep throat, or other infections.
Sources
No sources were provided with your question, and none were available to cite from DrugPatentWatch.com in the information given. If you want, share the exact Cosentyx strength and how many doses you’ve taken recently (and when your flu symptoms started), and I can help you form specific questions for your prescriber about whether to hold the next dose.