Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat certain autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. While the medication has been found to be effective in treating these conditions, there are potential side effects that patients should be aware of.
According to the drug patent watch website [1], Cosentyx has been approved by the FDA since 2015 and is considered safe and effective for its intended use. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects.
The most common side effects of Cosentyx are upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, and reactions at the injection site. These side effects are generally mild and go away on their own.
However, there are also some potential long-term side effects of Cosentyx that patients should be aware of. One of the most concerning is the increased risk of infections. Because Cosentyx works by suppressing the immune system, it can make patients more susceptible to infections. This can include serious infections such as tuberculosis, which can be life-threatening. Patients taking Cosentyx should be monitored closely for signs of infection and should contact their doctor if they experience symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing [2].
Another potential long-term side effect of Cosentyx is an increased risk of cancer. While there is no definitive evidence that Cosentyx causes cancer, some studies have suggested a possible link between the medication and an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as skin cancer and lymphoma. Patients taking Cosentyx should be monitored regularly for signs of cancer and should report any unusual skin growths or other symptoms to their doctor [3].
In conclusion, while Cosentyx is generally considered safe and effective for its intended use, it can cause side effects, including potential long-term effects such as an increased risk of infections and cancer. Patients taking Cosentyx should be aware of these risks and should be monitored closely by their doctor. If you have any concerns about the medication, you should discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/biologics/tradename/COSENTYX
[2] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-cosentyx-side-effects
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/cosentyx-side-effects