Cosentyx Starter Pack Dosing
The Cosentyx (secukinumab) starter pack for adults and children contains 6 doses for the first month of treatment. This includes:
- Week 0: 2 prefilled syringes (300 mg total, one 300 mg dose split into two 150 mg syringes) or 2 Sensoready pens.
- Weeks 1, 2, 3, 4: 1 prefilled syringe or 1 Sensoready pen each week (150 mg each).
This 6-dose regimen achieves loading doses to quickly reach steady-state levels for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis.[1][2]
How Dosing Changes After the Starter Pack
Maintenance starts at week 5 with 1 dose (150 mg or 300 mg based on weight/condition) every 4 weeks. Some patients step down to every 8 weeks if responding well.[1]
Prefilled Syringe vs. Sensoready Pen Packs
Both formats have identical 6-dose starter packs. Syringes are glass; pens are auto-injectors for easier self-administration. Pediatric packs (for kids 6+ weighing ≥50 kg) match adult starter dosing.[2][3]
Storage and Handling for the Starter Pack
Keep refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F); stable at room temperature up to 30°C (86°F) for 30 days (unopened). Do not freeze or shake. Each carton includes 6 items plus alcohol swabs.[1]
Common Patient Questions on Switching Packs
Patients often ask if they can reuse starter pack components—no, each is single-use. Refills come in 2-dose maintenance packs. Insurance may cover starter separately from maintenance.[3]
[1]: Cosentyx Prescribing Information (Novartis)
[2]: Cosentyx HCP Dosing Guide
[3]: Drugs.com Cosentyx Dosage