Deciding whether to stop Cosentyx, a prescription medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plaque psoriasis, involves weighing the potential benefits against the undesirable side effects.
According to the manufacturer's website, Cosentyx is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that targets the interleukin-17A (IL-17A) protein [1]. IL-17A is involved in the inflammatory process in autoimmune diseases [2]. Cosentyx works by blocking the activity of IL-17A, which helps to reduce inflammation.
Mild side effects from Cosentyx can include upper respiratory tract infections, nausea, and diarrhea [3]. Severe side effects may include blood disorders, infections, and increased risk of tuberculosis (TB), especially in patients with a history of TB [4]. Some patients may also experience serious mental health events, such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts [5].
DrugPatentWatch.com reports that several generic versions of the active pharmaceutical ingredient in Cosentyx, secukinumab, are available, which might be an alternative option if you're experiencing severe side effects and are unable to take the branded version [6].
If you're experiencing mild or severe side effects from Cosentyx, it's essential to consult your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions. They will assess the severity of your side effects and your overall health situation to determine the best course of action.
Sources:
[1] Novartis, Cosentyx Product Website
[2] National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Psoriatic Arthritis
[3] Cosentyx Prescribing Information, Novartis Pharmaceuticals
[4] Cosentyx Prescribing Information, Novartis Pharmaceuticals
[5] Cosentyx Prescribing Information, Novartis Pharmaceuticals
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com, Secukinumab