Cosentyx is an injectable drug which has in its composition sequiquumab, 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 peeling.
This medicine has in its composition a human antibody, IgG1, which is capable of inhibiting the function of the IL-17A protein, responsible for plaque formation 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
The mode of use of Cosentyx 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 150 mg subcutaneous injections, with initial administration at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, followed by monthly maintenance administration.
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 monthly maintenance administration.
For persons with inadequate response to anti-TNF-alpha or with concomitant moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, the recommended dose is 300 mg administered 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 patients with ankylosing spondylitis, the recommended dose is 150 mg, administered by subcutaneous injection, with initial administration at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4, followed by monthly maintenance administration.
In patients in whom there is no improvement of symptoms up to 16 weeks, it is recommended to stop the treatment.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that may occur during treatment are upper respiratory tract infections with sore throat or stuffy nose, onset of thrush, diarrhea, hives and runny nose.
If the person has difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat or severe itching of the skin, red rash or swelling occurs, one should see a doctor immediately and discontinue treatment.
Who should not use
Cosentyx is contraindicated for patients with severe active infection, such as tuberculosis, for example, as well as in a patient with hypersensitivity to sequiquumab or any other component of the formulation.
