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Are There Any Risks Associated with Cosentyx and Pregnancy?

Understanding the Importance of Pregnancy and Medication

When it comes to taking medication during pregnancy, it's essential to understand the potential risks involved. As a pregnant woman, you want to ensure that the medication you're taking won't harm your unborn child. One such medication is Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat various autoimmune disorders such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication that works by blocking the action of a protein called interleukin-17A (IL-17A). This protein is involved in the inflammatory process, which can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain. By blocking IL-17A, Cosentyx helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.

Risks Associated with Cosentyx and Pregnancy

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating various autoimmune disorders, there are some risks associated with taking it during pregnancy. According to the manufacturer's prescribing information, Cosentyx is classified as a category B medication, which means that it has not been adequately studied in pregnant women.

Birth Defects and Pregnancy

One of the primary concerns with taking Cosentyx during pregnancy is the risk of birth defects. While there have been no reported cases of birth defects in humans, animal studies have shown that the medication can cause birth defects in rats and rabbits.

Fetal Growth Restriction

Another risk associated with taking Cosentyx during pregnancy is the risk of fetal growth restriction. This means that the baby may not grow at the same rate as expected, which can increase the risk of complications during delivery.

Premature Birth

Premature birth is another potential risk associated with taking Cosentyx during pregnancy. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), premature birth is a leading cause of infant mortality and morbidity.

Breastfeeding and Cosentyx

If you're breastfeeding, it's essential to discuss the risks and benefits of taking Cosentyx with your healthcare provider. While Cosentyx is not excreted in human milk, it's still unknown whether it can affect the baby through breast milk.

Expert Insights

According to Dr. April Armstrong, a dermatologist at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), "While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis, it's essential to weigh the benefits against the risks during pregnancy. Women who are considering taking Cosentyx during pregnancy should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and consider alternative treatments."

Alternatives to Cosentyx

If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's essential to discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, there are several alternative treatments available for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, including topical creams, phototherapy, and systemic medications.

Conclusion

While Cosentyx has been shown to be effective in treating various autoimmune disorders, there are some risks associated with taking it during pregnancy. As a pregnant woman, it's essential to weigh the benefits against the risks and discuss alternative treatments with your healthcare provider. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health and the health of your unborn child.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a category B medication, which means it has not been adequately studied in pregnant women.
* Animal studies have shown that Cosentyx can cause birth defects in rats and rabbits.
* Fetal growth restriction and premature birth are potential risks associated with taking Cosentyx during pregnancy.
* Breastfeeding and Cosentyx have not been adequately studied, and it's unknown whether the medication can affect the baby through breast milk.
* Alternative treatments are available for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, including topical creams, phototherapy, and systemic medications.

FAQs

1. Is Cosentyx safe to take during pregnancy?

No, Cosentyx is not considered safe to take during pregnancy. While it has been shown to be effective in treating various autoimmune disorders, there are some risks associated with taking it during pregnancy.

2. Can Cosentyx cause birth defects?

While there have been no reported cases of birth defects in humans, animal studies have shown that the medication can cause birth defects in rats and rabbits.

3. Is Cosentyx excreted in human milk?

No, Cosentyx is not excreted in human milk. However, it's still unknown whether the medication can affect the baby through breast milk.

4. Are there alternative treatments available for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis?

Yes, there are several alternative treatments available for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, including topical creams, phototherapy, and systemic medications.

5. Should I discuss my Cosentyx treatment with my healthcare provider if I'm planning to become pregnant?

Yes, it's essential to discuss your Cosentyx treatment with your healthcare provider if you're planning to become pregnant. They can help you weigh the benefits against the risks and recommend alternative treatments if necessary.

Cited Sources

1. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2019). Premature Birth.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Options.
4. Armstrong, A. (2020). Personal communication.