Are there any precautions to take when taking Cosentyx with the flu?
If you're taking Cosentyx, which is used to treat conditions like psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis, and ankylosing spondylitis, and contract the flu, there are some precautions you should be aware of. According to the drug's manufacturer, Novartis, Cosentyx is a biologic medication that can increase your risk of infections, including respiratory infections like the flu [1].
If you have the flu while taking Cosentyx, your doctor may need to monitor you more closely for signs of complications, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Additionally, your doctor may adjust your treatment plan to minimize the risk of these complications.
What happens if I get the flu while taking Cosentyx?
The flu can exacerbate symptoms of underlying conditions like psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. If you have a weakened immune system due to a chronic illness or taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx, you're at a higher risk for developing severe flu symptoms, such as pneumonia.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that flu vaccines are safe for people taking biologics like Cosentyx, there is limited data on the specific interaction between Cosentyx and the flu [2]. It's essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you have concerns about getting vaccinated while taking Cosentyx.
Can I take antiviral medications with Cosentyx?
To treat the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza). These medications can be safely taken with Cosentyx, as long as your doctor is aware of the medication regimen.
However, if you have kidney problems or other underlying medical conditions, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage or closely monitor you for potential interactions between the antiviral medication and Cosentyx.
When can I take Cosentyx again after having the flu?
If you get the flu while taking Cosentyx, your doctor may advise you to wait for a certain period before resuming the medication. The specific timing will depend on your individual situation, including the severity of your symptoms and the duration of your illness.
In general, patients with underlying conditions can resume biologic medications like Cosentyx once their symptoms have resolved and their condition has stabilized [3].
Sources:
[1] Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (n.d.). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use.
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Vaccination and Biologics.
[3] Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (n.d.). Prescribing Information: Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection.