- What is it for
- How to use
- 1. Plaque psoriasis
- 2. Psoriatic arthritis
- 3. Ankylosing spondylitis
- Possible side effects
- Who should not use
Cosentyx is an injectable medicine with secuquinumab in its composition, which is used in some cases of moderate or severe plaque psoriasis to prevent the appearance of skin changes and symptoms such as itching or flaking.
This medicine has in its composition a human antibody, IgG1, which is able to inhibit the function of the IL-17A protein, responsible for the formation of plaques in cases of psoriasis.
What is it for
Cosentyx is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.
How to use
How Cosentyx is used varies according to the patient and the type of psoriasis and, therefore, should always be guided by a doctor with experience and treatment of psoriasis.
1. Plaque psoriasis
The recommended dose is 300 mg, which is equivalent to two subcutaneous injections of 150 mg, with initial administration in weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, followed by administration of monthly maintenance.
2. Psoriatic arthritis
The recommended dose in people with psoriatic arthritis is 150 mg, via subcutaneous injection, with initial administration at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, followed by administration of monthly maintenance.
For people with inadequate response to anti-TNF-alpha or with concomitant moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, the recommended dose is 300 mg, given as two 150 mg subcutaneous injections, with initial administration at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, followed by monthly maintenance administration.
3. Ankylosing spondylitis
In people with ankylosing spondylitis, the recommended dose is 150 mg, administered by subcutaneous injection, with initial administration in weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, followed by administration of monthly maintenance.
In patients with no improvement in symptoms until 16 weeks, it is recommended to stop treatment.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that may occur during treatment are upper respiratory tract infections with a sore throat or stuffy nose, thrush, diarrhea, hives and a runny nose.
If the person has difficulty breathing or swallowing, there is swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat or severe itching of the skin, with red rashes or swelling, you should go to the doctor immediately and stop the treatment.
Who should not use
Cosentyx is contraindicated for patients with severe active infection, such as tuberculosis, for example, as well as in patients with hypersensitivity to secuquinumab or any other component present in the formula.
