Can Cosentyx (secukinumab) increase the risk of infections?
Yes. Cosentyx can raise the risk of infections because it blocks interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which helps drive parts of the immune response. In clinical use, infections were reported more often in people taking Cosentyx than in those taking placebo, and the risk is higher for certain types of infections. [1]
What kinds of infections are most associated with Cosentyx?
The infections described with Cosentyx include common bacterial and viral infections, along with more specific concerns such as:
- Upper respiratory and other common infections (reported in studies). [1]
- Fungal infections, particularly those related to Candida. [1]
What should you do if you get an infection while on Cosentyx?
If you develop signs of an infection (for example, fever, worsening cough, or symptoms of a skin infection), you should contact your clinician. Their guidance often depends on severity and type of infection, and treatment may need to be held or adjusted if an infection becomes serious. [1]
Who might be at higher risk for infections on Cosentyx?
Risk can be higher if you have factors that already increase infection risk, such as:
- A history of recurrent infections.
- Active or chronic infections.
- Being on other immunosuppressive medicines (since combined immune effects can increase risk). [1]
Does the infection risk differ by condition (psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)?
The available safety information for Cosentyx describes infection risk across its approved indications; specific infection rates can vary by study and patient population, but the overall pattern of increased infections versus placebo is consistent. [1]
Can Cosentyx be used if you have a current or latent infection?
Clinicians generally consider infection status before starting biologics that affect immune pathways. Because Cosentyx can affect how the body responds to infection, it may not be appropriate to start or continue it in the setting of certain active infections, and latent infections may require evaluation first. Follow your prescriber’s assessment plan. [1]
How serious do infections have to be before you should worry?
Any infection that becomes severe, persistent, or accompanied by systemic symptoms (like fever) should be treated as urgent. Cosentyx’s safety information highlights infections and serious infections as key concerns that require medical attention. [1]
References
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/