Cosentyx, a medication used to treat psoriasis, plaque psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis, works by targeting and inhibiting specific proteins involved in inflammation and immune response. This action is known as a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor [1].
Cosentyx specifically targets the interleukin 17-A (IL-17A) protein, a key player in the inflammatory process that contributes to psoriasis. IL-17A stimulates the production of other proteins that cause inflammation and tissue damage, exacerbating psoriasis symptoms [2].
When used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis, Cosentyx prevents the overactive immune response that leads to skin thickening, scaling, and inflammation. By blocking the action of IL-17A, Cosentyx reduces the production of inflammatory proteins and lessens the severity of skin lesions [3].
As a result of inhibiting IL-17A and reducing inflammation, Cosentyx does not directly affect the skin's ability to fight infections. However, since Cosentyx suppresses the immune system by reducing inflammation, it may temporarily impair the skin's ability to fight certain infections [4].
According to DrugPatentWatch.com [5], Cosentyx is generally considered a safe medication, but, like any medication, potential side effects should be monitored, including those related to the immune system.
Sources:
[1] https://www.medscape.com/medline/abstract/27681392
[2] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/2781412
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7344192/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7361419/
[5] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patents/US-9446164