Can I take Cosentyx (secukinumab) while I’m on amoxicillin?
Cosentyx (secukinumab) can generally be continued while taking amoxicillin, and the combination is commonly used in real-world care when a person with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis needs treatment for a bacterial infection. There is no well-known drug interaction between secukinumab and amoxicillin that would automatically require avoiding one or the other.
Does amoxicillin change how Cosentyx works (or vice versa)?
Amoxicillin is an antibiotic that treats bacterial infections. Cosentyx is an immune-modulating biologic that targets IL-17A. They act in different ways, and taking amoxicillin does not typically affect Cosentyx levels or effectiveness.
That said, the infection itself may be the bigger deciding factor. If you’re being treated for an infection, clinicians often assess whether it’s mild and improving or more serious, because biologics can sometimes be paused during significant infections.
What if the infection is serious—should I stop Cosentyx?
Whether you should hold Cosentyx depends on how severe the infection is and your clinician’s guidance. If you have signs of a more serious infection (for example, fever that doesn’t improve, worsening symptoms, or hospitalization), your prescriber may temporarily pause biologic therapy while the infection is treated.
If you’re just taking amoxicillin for an uncomplicated bacterial infection, many patients stay on their biologic, but the correct plan is individualized.
What side effects might overlap, and what should I watch for?
Symptoms from infection and side effects from antibiotics can look similar (for example, fever, fatigue). You should contact your clinician if you develop:
- Fever that persists or worsens after starting antibiotics
- Rash or swelling that could suggest an allergic reaction to amoxicillin
- New or worsening shortness of breath, severe diarrhea, or signs of dehydration
Is there a safety concern with “staying on” an immune-modulating drug during antibiotics?
Cosentyx affects immune signaling, which is why clinicians pay close attention to infections. But treating a bacterial infection with amoxicillin while on Cosentyx is not automatically contraindicated. The key is making sure the infection is being treated effectively and reassessing if it’s not improving.
Quick practical guidance
- Don’t start or stop Cosentyx on your own just because you’re taking amoxicillin.
- Call the prescriber who manages your Cosentyx if the infection is significant, not improving, or you’re unsure whether you should delay a dose.
- Seek urgent care for severe allergic reactions to amoxicillin (hives, facial swelling, trouble breathing) or severe infection symptoms.
If you tell me why you’re taking amoxicillin (sinus infection, dental infection, strep throat, etc.) and how severe your symptoms are, I can help you think through what your prescriber may consider regarding continuing vs. pausing Cosentyx.