What should I do if my Cosentyx (secukinumab) prefilled syringe or pen box has frozen?
If the medicine itself (the prefilled syringe/pen) has been frozen, stop using it and contact the pharmacy or Cosentyx support for next steps. Frozen biologics can lose stability, and manufacturers typically advise against using products that have been frozen.
Because “box has frozen” can mean different things (the box was left outside, the medication was touched by ice packs, or the room cooled briefly), the exact guidance depends on what actually froze:
- Did the syringe/pen itself reach freezing temperatures?
- Were ice packs placed directly with the medication?
- How long might it have been frozen?
If you can, check the storage label inside/attached to your box and tell the pharmacist:
- Product form (prefilled syringe vs Sensoready pen)
- Lot number/expiration date
- Approximate time it was likely frozen
- How it was stored (near an ice pack? in a freezer? left in a cold car?)
Can I still use Cosentyx if only the box was frozen but the syringes were not?
If the prefilled syringes/pens did not freeze (for example, only the outer carton was cold), some medications can be handled differently than if the drug itself froze. The safest route is to confirm with the pharmacist and follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions for Cosentyx. Do not guess based only on how cold the outside packaging felt.
How to handle it right now (practical steps)
- Do not use the syringe/pen if you suspect it froze.
- Keep it in its original packaging.
- Store it according to the label (do not refreeze).
- Call your pharmacy or the prescriber’s office for replacement guidance.
- If you’re due for a dose, ask about whether and when to take the next dose after a replacement is arranged.
What replacement options usually look like
Pharmacies often replace medicines that were temperature-compromised, but they need:
- Proof of what happened (timing, storage conditions)
- Lot/expiration info
- Return/disposal instructions
Your insurance may also require a pharmacy verification that it was temperature-damaged.
Side effects or risks if you delay a dose after a temperature problem
Missing or delaying a dose can allow symptoms of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis to worsen. Your prescriber can advise how to restart once a replacement is confirmed. Do not take extra doses to “make up” for missed treatment without medical guidance.
Quick questions to get you the right answer
Reply with:
1) Was the prefilled syringe/pen frozen (ice crystals/chilled solid), or only the outer box/cold room?
2) How long was it likely frozen?
3) Where was it stored (car, garage, outdoors, freezer, fridge, near ice packs)?
4) Which form do you have: Sensoready pen or prefilled syringe?
Sources
- Drug storage/biologic handling guidance varies by manufacturer labeling; if you share the details, I can help you interpret what to do next.