Does Cosentyx (secukinumab) suppress the immune system?
Cosentyx blocks interleukin-17A (IL‑17A), a signal involved in normal immune responses. Because it changes immune signaling, it can raise the risk of certain infections and can affect how well the body clears infections. Patients are typically screened for active infections and monitored during treatment [1][2].
What infections are the main concern?
The key immune-related risk with Cosentyx is infection, especially:
- Upper respiratory infections (such as colds) and other common bacterial/viral infections [1][2]
- Serious infections, which can require urgent medical attention [1]
- Fungal infections, particularly candidiasis (yeast infections). If symptoms occur, they should be treated promptly and clinicians may adjust therapy [1][2]
What happens if you get an infection while taking Cosentyx?
If a serious infection develops, treatment is usually paused or reconsidered until the infection is evaluated and treated. Patients are advised to seek medical care promptly if they develop fever, worsening symptoms, or signs of infection [1][2].
Could it affect your immune response to vaccines?
Cosentyx can reduce immune response strength against pathogens in general, and live vaccines are typically avoided during biologic therapy. Inactivated vaccines may still be used, but they may not work as strongly as they would without immune-modifying therapy. Your prescriber can advise which vaccines are appropriate before or during treatment [2].
Is tuberculosis (TB) or hepatitis risk part of immune suppression concerns?
Before starting Cosentyx, clinicians commonly screen for tuberculosis and other infections because suppressing immune signaling can worsen certain latent infections. If TB or other serious infection is detected, treatment may need to be addressed before Cosentyx is started [1][2].
Who is at higher risk for immune-related problems?
Risk is generally higher in people who already have:
- Active or recurrent infections
- Conditions that compromise immune function (for example, certain chronic illnesses or immunosuppressive medications)
- A history of recurrent fungal infections [1][2]
What other “immune system” warnings should patients know about?
Cosentyx’s IL‑17A blockade has also been associated with immune-mediated skin and bowel conditions in some people, so clinicians monitor for new or worsening symptoms such as inflammatory bowel disease flares or severe skin reactions. These are not the same as “immunosuppression,” but they are immune-related events that can occur during treatment [1][2].
Sources
- Cosentyx (secukinumab) prescribing information – immune-related infection risk and monitoring
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) product information for Cosentyx – infection warnings and precautions