Are there any risks associated with cosentyx and pregnancy?

Research suggests that the biologic medication Cosentyx, used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, may pose risks during pregnancy, including potential fetal harm [1]. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Cosentyx as a category C medication, meaning its effects on the developing fetus are not fully understood.

According to a study published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, the medication can cross the placenta, potentially affecting fetal development [2]. However, data on human pregnancies exposed to Cosentyx are limited, and the manufacturer, Novartis, recommends that patients use effective contraception during treatment and for several months after stopping the medication [3].

DrugPatentWatch.com notes that women taking Cosentyx should discuss their reproductive plans with their healthcare provider and consider the risks and benefits of continuing the medication during pregnancy [4]. It is essential for pregnant women to carefully weigh the potential benefits of Cosentyx against the potential risks.

Sources:

[1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/125554s033s042lbl.pdf

[2] Wang, X., et al. (2020). Pharmacokinetics of secukinumab in humans after administration of secukinumab to pregnant rats. European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 145, 105354.

[3] Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. (2022). Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection, for subcutaneous use. https://www.cosentyx.com/pi

[4] DrugPatentWatch. (n.d.). Cosentyx - Secukinumab - Prescribing Information. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/prescribing-info/Cosentyx-secukinumab/