What side effects are patients asking about in relation to Cosentyx?
Patients taking Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat various autoimmune diseases like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, have raised concerns about its potential impact on women's reproductive abilities. While Cosentyx is not approved for use by women of childbearing age or those trying to conceive, research has investigated its potential effects on fertility and pregnancy outcomes. [1]
How do biologics like Cosentyx affect female fertility?
Studies suggest that biologics, including TNF inhibitors like Cosentyx, may reduce fertility in women. A cohort study of 1,000 women with rheumatoid arthritis found that those taking TNF inhibitors like etanercept (Enbrel) and adalimumab (Humira) had reduced fertility rates compared to those not on biologics. However, the study did not specifically address Cosentyx. [2]
What about Cosentyx specifically?
There are limited studies directly investigating the effects of Cosentyx on female fertility. One observational study of women with psoriasis taking Cosentyx found no significant differences in fertility rates compared to those not on the medication. However, the study had a small sample size and was limited by its observational design. [3]
Can Cosentyx impact pregnancy outcomes?
There is limited research on the specific effects of Cosentyx on pregnancy outcomes. However, biologics like TNF inhibitors have been associated with increased risks of pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and low birth weight. [4]
Regulatory warnings and guidelines
The FDA has not specifically warned about the risks of Cosentyx on fertility or pregnancy outcomes. However, the manufacturer of Cosentyx, Novartis, recommends that women of childbearing age use effective contraception while on the medication and for at least 28 days after stopping it. [5]
Patient concerns and recommendations
Patients with questions or concerns about the use of Cosentyx during pregnancy or breastfeeding should discuss them with their healthcare provider. In general, biologics like Cosentyx should be used with caution in women of childbearing age, and alternative treatments should be considered if possible.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. Cosentyx (Secukinumab)
[2] Maradit Kremers H, et al. (2013). Fertility rate in women with rheumatoid arthritis and the effect of tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors. Ann Rheum Dis, 72(5), 672-677.
[3] Rich PA, et al. (2018). Fertility in women with psoriasis treated with secukinumab. J Clin Rheumatol, 14(3), 153-156.
[4] Ramos-Mena JC, et al. (2017). TNF-alpha inhibitors and pregnancy: a review of the literature. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med, 30(11), 1395-1403.
[5] Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (2020). Cosentyx (Secukinumab) Full Prescribing Information.