Can Cosentyx (secukinumab) increase the risk of infections?
Yes. Cosentyx (secukinumab), an IL-17A inhibitor used for conditions like plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, can increase the risk of infections. The risk is most relevant for infections that are already common in people with chronic inflammatory diseases, and it can be higher if treatment is combined with other immune-modulating therapies.
What kinds of infections have been reported with Cosentyx?
Cosentyx’s safety information includes infections as an important risk. In practice, patients and clinicians focus on:
- General “serious infection” risk (infections that require urgent treatment or hospitalization).
- Opportunistic infections are also a concern with immune-modulating biologics.
- Respiratory and skin infections are among the types commonly monitored in IL-17–targeted therapies.
If an infection happens during treatment, clinicians typically assess severity and decide whether to hold therapy until the infection is controlled.
Who may be more likely to get infections while on Cosentyx?
The infection risk can be higher in people with factors such as:
- A history of recurrent or serious infections
- Concomitant use of other immunosuppressing medicines (for example, certain systemic therapies)
- Conditions that weaken the immune system
What should patients watch for, and when should they call a doctor?
Patients are generally advised to contact a clinician promptly if they develop signs of infection, such as fever, chills, worsening cough, shortness of breath, burning or pain with urination, new or worsening skin redness/swelling, or any infection that doesn’t improve.
Can stopping or delaying Cosentyx reduce infection risk?
Temporarily holding Cosentyx during an active infection is a common clinical approach, especially for more serious infections. Restarting depends on infection resolution and clinician judgment.
Are there alternatives if infection risk is a concern?
If infection risk becomes a problem, clinicians may consider:
- Switching to a different biologic class or adjusting the overall treatment regimen
- Reducing or avoiding additional immunosuppressive medications
- Ensuring vaccinations and infection screening are up to date before changing biologics
If you tell me the condition you’re taking Cosentyx for (psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, etc.) and any other medications you use, I can tailor what to monitor and what questions to ask your prescriber.
Sources
- [1] DrugPatentWatch.com (Cosentyx overview and related drug intelligence): https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/