Secukinumab Treatment: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained

Summary of Key Points

Secukinumab is a prescription medication used to manage several inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It works by targeting specific proteins in the immune system to help reduce inflammation. Secukinumab is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. You can also speak with one of our telemedicine providers today to learn more about Secukinumab treatment.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Cosentyx

Generic Name: Secukinumab

The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. In this case, Secukinumab is the generic name.

Pharmacologic Category

Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) Inhibitor

Secukinumab Dosage

Secukinumab is used to treat various conditions, and the dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your dose. You can also connect with one of our telemedicine providers for personalized advice on Secukinumab dosage.

Psoriasis (Plaque Psoriasis)

Initial Dose: 300 mg by subcutaneous injection at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Maintenance Dose: 300 mg every 4 weeks thereafter.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Initial Dose: 150 mg by subcutaneous injection at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Maintenance Dose: 150 mg every 4 weeks thereafter. For patients with coexisting moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, the dose may be increased to 300 mg.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Initial Dose: 150 mg by subcutaneous injection at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Maintenance Dose: 150 mg every 4 weeks thereafter.

Crohn’s Disease

Secukinumab is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of Crohn’s disease. Please consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.

Ulcerative Colitis

Secukinumab is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Please consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Secukinumab is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Please consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.

Atopic Dermatitis

Secukinumab is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Please consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Secukinumab is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa. Please consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.

Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

Initial Dose: 150 mg by subcutaneous injection at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Maintenance Dose: 150 mg every 4 weeks thereafter.

Uveitis

Secukinumab is not currently FDA-approved for the treatment of uveitis. Please consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatment options.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Secukinumab is available as a prefilled syringe or autoinjector for subcutaneous use.

Strengths: 150 mg/mL and 300 mg/mL.

Secukinumab Injection Instructions

Secukinumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection, typically into the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. If you are self-administering, your healthcare provider will guide you on how to properly prepare and inject the medication. Always follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Secukinumab Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Like all medications, Secukinumab can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience them, but it’s important to be aware of potential reactions. If you experience severe or concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Common Side Effects (affecting more than 1 in 10 people):

1. Upper respiratory infections: Symptoms may include a sore throat, runny nose, or cough.
2. Headache: Some patients report mild to moderate headaches.

Less Common Side Effects (affecting 1 in 100 to 1 in 10 people):

1. Diarrhea: Some patients may experience loose stools or diarrhea.
2. Oral herpes: Cold sores or blisters around the mouth may occur.

Rare Side Effects (affecting fewer than 1 in 100 people):

1. Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
2. Increased risk of infections: Secukinumab may lower your immune system’s ability to fight infections, leading to more frequent or severe infections.

Contraindications for Secukinumab Treatment

A contraindication is a specific situation where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. If you have any of the following conditions, Secukinumab may not be safe for you. Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider before starting a new medication.

1. Active Infections: Secukinumab can weaken your immune system, which may worsen or prolong infections. If you have an active infection, including tuberculosis (TB), you should not take Secukinumab until the infection is treated.
2. History of Tuberculosis: If you have had TB in the past, Secukinumab could reactivate the infection. Your healthcare provider may recommend a TB test before starting treatment.
3. Allergic Reactions: If you have had a severe allergic reaction (hypersensitivity) to Secukinumab or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include swelling, difficulty breathing, and rash.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Secukinumab may worsen conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. If you have a history of IBD, your provider may recommend an alternative treatment.

Drug to Drug Interactions with Secukinumab

Secukinumab may interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Some known interactions include:

Live Vaccines: Live vaccines, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, should not be administered while taking Secukinumab. This is because Secukinumab can weaken the immune system, making live vaccines less effective and potentially harmful.

Immunosuppressants: Medications like methotrexate (Trexall) or cyclosporine (Neoral), which suppress the immune system, may increase the risk of infections when taken alongside Secukinumab.

Secukinumab in Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Is it safe to take Secukinumab during pregnancy?

There is limited information on the safety of Secukinumab during pregnancy. While animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, human studies are still lacking. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. They will help you weigh the risks of untreated conditions like psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis against the possible risks of taking Secukinumab during pregnancy.

Secukinumab While Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know

Is it safe to take Secukinumab while breastfeeding?

There is currently insufficient data to determine whether Secukinumab passes into breast milk or affects a nursing infant. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult your healthcare provider to discuss your treatment options. They may recommend continuing treatment if the benefits outweigh potential risks or suggest an alternative therapy.

Estimated Cost of Secukinumab (Cosentyx)

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Secukinumab (Cosentyx) without insurance ranges from $5,000 to $6,000. However, using a GoodRx coupon, the price may be reduced to approximately $4,500 to $5,000. Prices can vary depending on the pharmacy and location, so it’s advisable to check for discounts or patient assistance programs.

Possible Alternatives to Secukinumab Treatment

If Secukinumab is not suitable for you, other treatments and lifestyle changes may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss alternatives.

Psoriasis: Alternatives include other biologics like adalimumab (Humira) or ustekinumab (Stelara), as well as topical treatments such as corticosteroids or vitamin D analogs. Light therapy (phototherapy) and lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and avoiding triggers, may also be beneficial.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Common alternatives include methotrexate (Trexall), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil). Physical therapy and regular exercise can improve joint function and reduce pain.

Ankylosing Spondylitis: TNF inhibitors like infliximab (Remicade) or etanercept (Enbrel) are often used. Physical therapy and exercises to improve posture and flexibility can also be helpful.

Crohn’s Disease: Alternatives include biologics like vedolizumab (Entyvio) or infliximab (Remicade). Dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods and following a low-fiber diet, may also help manage symptoms.

Ulcerative Colitis: Mesalamine (Asacol) and corticosteroids are common alternatives. Dietary modifications, such as eating smaller meals and avoiding high-fiber foods, can also help control symptoms.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate (Trexall) or leflunomide (Arava) are often used. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help manage symptoms.

Atopic Dermatitis: Topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus (Protopic), and moisturizers are common alternatives. Avoiding triggers such as harsh soaps and allergens can help manage flare-ups.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Treatment options may include antibiotics, hormonal therapy, and surgical interventions. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tight clothing can help reduce symptoms.

Non-radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: TNF inhibitors like adalimumab (Humira) or etanercept (Enbrel) are often used. Physical therapy and exercises to improve posture and flexibility can also be beneficial.

Uveitis: Corticosteroid eye drops or injections are commonly used to reduce inflammation. In some cases, immunosuppressive medications may be needed to prevent flare-ups.

Recent Updates on Secukinumab Research

Recent studies have focused on expanding the use of Secukinumab for additional conditions and improving its long-term safety profile. One ongoing study is investigating the effectiveness of Secukinumab in treating non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects the spine but does not show up on X-rays. Preliminary results suggest that Secukinumab may help reduce symptoms in patients with this condition.

Another area of research is exploring the long-term safety of Secukinumab, particularly in patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). While Secukinumab has been associated with worsening IBD symptoms in some patients, researchers are working to better understand this risk and identify which patients may be more susceptible.

It is important to stay informed about new research and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. If you have questions about Secukinumab or your treatment plan, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers today.

James Kingsley

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