Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a prescription medication used to treat various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs known as interleukin-17A (IL-17A) inhibitors. Cosentyx works by targeting IL-17A, a protein involved in the inflammatory response. It is commonly prescribed for:

1. Plaque Psoriasis: Cosentyx is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterised by raised, red, scaly patches on the skin.
2. Psoriatic Arthritis: It is also used to manage psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that often occurs in individuals with psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
3. Ankylosing Spondylitis: Cosentyx is prescribed for ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints.
4. Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: It is used to treat active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, a condition that causes inflammatory back pain and stiffness.
5. Cosentyx is typically administered by subcutaneous injection, and it works by reducing inflammation and managing the symptoms associated with these conditions. As with any medication, it may have potential side effects, and its use should be under the guidance and prescription of a healthcare provider.

Using a Cosentyx (secukinumab) injection involves a subcutaneous injection, and it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions. Below are general steps for using a Cosentyx injection:

1. Choose an Injection Site: Your healthcare provider will recommend specific injection sites. Common areas include the front of the thighs, abdomen, or upper arm. Rotate the injection site with each dose to minimise the risk of injection site reactions.
2. Cleanse the Site: Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen injection site. Allow it to air dry completely before proceeding.
3. Prepare the Medication:
   • If using a pre-filled syringe: Remove the cap from the syringe.
   • If using an auto-injector: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparation.
4. Administer the Injection:
   • Hold the syringe or auto-injector at a 45-degree angle to your skin.
   • Insert the needle into the skin and inject the medication slowly.
   • If using an auto-injector, it will typically administer the medication automatically with a button or trigger.
5. Remove the Needle or Auto-Injector:
   1. After the medication has been administered, remove the needle or auto-injector.
   2. Do not rub or massage the injection site.
6. Apply a Cotton Ball or Gauze: Gently apply a clean cotton ball or gauze to the injection site to prevent bleeding.
7. Dispose of the Used Needle or Auto-Injector: Place the used needle or auto-injector in a sharps disposal container. Follow local regulations for the disposal of sharps.
8. Record the Injection: Maintain a treatment diary and record the date and location of the injection as recommended by your healthcare provider.
9. Follow-Up: Adhere to the dosing schedule prescribed by your healthcare provider and report any side effects or concerns to them.
10. It's important to receive proper training from your healthcare provider or a nurse on how to self-administer Cosentyx injections, especially if you are doing it at home. Follow the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the type of Cosentyx injection device you have. Always adhere to your healthcare provider's guidance for your 

If you forget to take a scheduled dose of Cosentyx (secukinumab), the recommended action is typically as follows:

1. Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Notify your healthcare provider or the healthcare team managing your treatment as soon as you realise you missed a dose of Cosentyx.
2. Guidance from Your Provider: Your healthcare provider will offer specific guidance on how to proceed. They might recommend rescheduling the missed dose or adjusting your dosing regimen, depending on the timing and your individual treatment plan.
3. Catch-Up Dosing: In some cases, your healthcare provider may advise you to take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, it's crucial to follow their guidance and not take multiple doses at once without their approval.
4. Maintain Regular Schedule: Try to return to your regular dosing schedule as instructed by your healthcare provider to ensure the effectiveness of the medication in managing your condition.
5. Record the Missed Dose: Keep a treatment diary and note the date of the missed dose. This information will be valuable for discussions with your healthcare provider during your next visit.

Remember, it's essential to communicate with your healthcare provider or the healthcare team managing your treatment regarding any missed doses. They will provide specific instructions based on your individual treatment plan to help you maintain the effectiveness of Cosentyx in managing your autoimmune or inflammatory condition.

Using too much Cosentyx (secukinumab) can potentially lead to an increased risk of side effects and complications. It's important to strictly adhere to the dosing schedule and dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take extra doses or increase the dose without their guidance.

If you accidentally take more Cosentyx than prescribed, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention promptly. They can provide guidance on how to manage the situation, which may include monitoring for adverse effects and adjusting your treatment plan if necessary.

Using an excessive amount of Cosentyx can increase the risk of side effects and may not provide additional benefits. It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and not make any changes to your medication regimen without consulting with them. They have the knowledge and expertise to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.

Cosentyx (secukinumab) should be stored and handled properly to maintain its effectiveness and safety. Here are the general guidelines for storing Cosentyx:

1. Refrigeration: Cosentyx should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 2°C to 8°C. Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from light.
2. Do Not Freeze: Do not freeze Cosentyx. Freezing can damage the medication and make it ineffective.
3. Transport: When transporting Cosentyx, keep it refrigerated in a cooler or insulated bag with ice packs. Do not allow it to freeze or expose it to extreme heat.
4. Protect from Light: Store Cosentyx in its original carton to protect it from light.
5. Expiration Date: Check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use Cosentyx if it has expired.

It's essential to follow the manufacturer's storage instructions provided in the medication's packaging. Proper storage is crucial to maintain the effectiveness of Cosentyx. If you have any concerns or questions about storing Cosentyx, consult with your healthcare provider or the healthcare facility where you receive your treatment for guidance.

Cosentyx (secukinumab) is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can have potential side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and they can vary in severity. It's important to be aware of possible side effects and discuss them with your healthcare provider. Common and serious side effects of Cosentyx may include:

Common Side Effects:

1. Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: Symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, or sinus congestion.
2. Nasopharyngitis: Inflammation of the nasal passages and throat.
3. Headache: Mild to moderate headaches.
4. Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal symptoms.
5. Hypertension: An increase in blood pressure may occur in some cases.

Serious Side Effects:

1. Infections: Cosentyx can increase the risk of infections, including serious bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. It's important to monitor for signs of infection and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, or persistent cough.
2. Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and hives.
3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease: In some cases, Cosentyx may worsen or lead to the development of inflammatory bowel disease.
4. Hepatitis B Reactivation: If you have had hepatitis B in the past, Cosentyx can reactivate the virus. Your healthcare provider will typically screen for hepatitis B before starting treatment.
5. Cardiovascular Effects: There may be an increased risk of certain cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes.
6. Malignancies: While the overall risk is low, there may be a slightly increased risk of certain cancers, such as lymphoma and skin cancers.

It's essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about any side effects you experience while on Cosentyx. They can provide guidance on how to manage these side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Your healthcare provider will weigh the potential risks and benefits of Cosentyx for your specific condition and medical history.

Cosentyx (secukinumab) can potentially interact with other medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking. They will consider potential drug interactions when prescribing Cosentyx and can adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Some medications and classes of drugs that may have interactions with Cosentyx include:

1. Immunosuppressive Medications: Combining Cosentyx with other immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids or certain biologics, can increase the risk of infections. Your healthcare provider will carefully assess the risks and benefits if you are taking multiple immunosuppressants.
2. Live Vaccines: While on Cosentyx, it's important to avoid receiving live vaccines, as they may cause uncontrolled infections. Discuss your vaccination schedule with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive appropriate vaccines when needed.
3. Medications for Autoimmune Conditions: Cosentyx may interact with other medications commonly used to treat autoimmune conditions, such as methotrexate or azathioprine. Your healthcare provider will consider these interactions when prescribing Cosentyx and may adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
4. Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular monitoring of your condition and laboratory tests may be necessary to ensure that Cosentyx is effective and that other medications are not causing adverse effects.

It's essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your complete medication list to ensure that Cosentyx can be used safely and effectively in your treatment regimen. Your doctor will consider potential drug interactions, your specific medical condition, and your overall health to make appropriate recommendations. Do not make changes to your medication regimen without consulting with your healthcare provider.

Are Cosentyx injections painful?

The experience of pain during Cosentyx (secukinumab) injections can vary from person to person. Cosentyx is typically administered by subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected just under the skin. Here are some factors that can influence the level of pain or discomfort during Cosentyx injections:

1. Individual Sensitivity: People have varying levels of sensitivity to pain. Some individuals may find the injection relatively painless, while others may experience some discomfort.
2. Injection Technique: The technique used to administer the injection can impact the level of pain. Healthcare providers often use thin, fine needles to minimize discomfort.
3. Temperature: Some individuals find it more comfortable when the medication is allowed to come to room temperature before injection.
4. Pre-Medication: Your healthcare provider may prescribe pre-medications to reduce discomfort or the risk of injection site reactions.
5. Injection Site: The choice of injection site can also affect comfort. Healthcare providers often recommend rotating injection sites to minimize the risk of injection site reactions.
6. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated before the injection can help make the process more comfortable.

It's important to communicate with your healthcare provider and the healthcare team administering the Cosentyx injections about any discomfort or side effects you experience. They can provide guidance on how to manage these side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Many individuals receive Cosentyx injections without significant discomfort, and the potential benefits in managing autoimmune and inflammatory conditions often outweigh any temporary discomfort.

Does Cosentyx lower your immune system?

Cosentyx (secukinumab) is not classified as a traditional immunosuppressant, but it does affect the immune system in a specific way. Cosentyx is a biologic medication that works by targeting and inhibiting the activity of interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a protein involved in the inflammatory response. By reducing the activity of IL-17A, Cosentyx helps control inflammation and relieve symptoms in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

While Cosentyx does not suppress the immune system as broadly as some other medications, it can affect certain immune functions. As a result, individuals taking Cosentyx may have a slightly increased risk of infections, particularly those caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It's important to monitor for signs of infection while on Cosentyx and seek prompt medical attention if any symptoms, such as fever or persistent cough, arise.

Your healthcare provider will consider these potential effects on the immune system when prescribing Cosentyx and will carefully weigh the risks and benefits for your specific condition and medical history. It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations, attend regular follow-up appointments, and communicate any concerns or signs of infection while on Cosentyx.

How long can Cosentyx be out of the fridge?

Cosentyx (secukinumab) should be stored and handled properly to maintain its effectiveness and safety. It is generally recommended to store Cosentyx in the refrigerator at a temperature of 2°C to 8°C. However, there are certain considerations for short-term storage at room temperature:

1. Short-Term Storage: Cosentyx may be kept at room temperature up to 25°C for a single period of up to 14 days. During this time, it should not be exposed to direct sunlight or excessive heat.
2. Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze Cosentyx. Freezing can damage the medication and make it ineffective.
3. Protection from Light: Store Cosentyx in its original packaging to protect it from light.
4. Expiration Date: Check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use Cosentyx if it has expired.

It's essential to follow the manufacturer's storage instructions provided in the medication's packaging. Proper storage is crucial to maintain the effectiveness of Cosentyx. If you have any concerns or questions about storing Cosentyx, consult with your healthcare provider or the healthcare facility where you receive your treatment for guidance.

How long does Cosentyx stay in your system?

The duration that Cosentyx (secukinumab) remains in your system can vary from person to person. Cosentyx is typically administered at regular intervals to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system. Here are some general guidelines:

1. Regular Dosing: Cosentyx is often administered at specific intervals, depending on the condition being treated. For example, in the case of plaque psoriasis, it is commonly administered at a loading dose followed by regular maintenance doses. The maintenance doses are typically given once a month.
2. Half-Life: The elimination half-life of Cosentyx is approximately 26 to 34 days, which means it takes about this amount of time for half of the medication to be eliminated from your system. After several half-lives, the medication is significantly reduced in your body.
3. Individual Variation: The duration of action and effectiveness of Cosentyx can vary among individuals. Some people may experience a significant reduction in symptoms for the entire dosing interval, while others may find that the medication's effects wear off toward the end of the dosing cycle.
4. Condition Being Treated: The specific autoimmune or inflammatory condition being treated can affect how long Cosentyx remains in your system. Those with more severe symptoms may find that the medication's effects are more prolonged.

It's crucial to follow your healthcare provider's prescribed dosing schedule and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your condition and the effectiveness of Cosentyx. If you have concerns about the duration of action or the effectiveness of Cosentyx, discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can adjust your treatment plan if necessary to ensure you receive the most benefit from the medication.

How long does Cosentyx take to work?

The time it takes for Cosentyx (secukinumab) to start working can vary from person to person and depends on the specific autoimmune or inflammatory condition being treated. In many cases, patients may start to notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks to a few months of starting Cosentyx treatment. However, it's important to keep in mind the following factors that can influence how long it takes for Cosentyx to be effective:

• Condition Being Treated: The response time to Cosentyx can vary depending on the autoimmune or inflammatory condition being treated. Some individuals may experience relief from their symptoms relatively quickly, while others may require more time for the medication to take full effect.

Ace provides accurate and independent information medically reviewed on prescription medications. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.