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Secukinumab

This form:

Pronounced

"SEK-ue-KIN-ue-mab"

Common brand names:

Cosentyx

Uses

This medication is used to treat plaque psoriasis and certain types of arthritis (such as arthritis of the spine, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, enthesitis-related arthritis). It is also used to treat a certain skin disorder (hidradenitis suppurativa). Secukinumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by blocking a certain natural protein in your body (interleukin-17A) that may cause inflammation and swelling.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide and the Instructions for Use leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using secukinumab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Before treatment with this medication, your doctor will make sure that you have received all your vaccinations and also test you for tuberculosis (TB). Your doctor should monitor you for symptoms of TB during and after treatment with this drug. If needed, treatment for tuberculosis or other infections should be given before receiving this medication.

This medication is given by injection under your skin as directed by your doctor. The injection is given in the upper arms, thighs, or abdomen (at least 2 inches from your belly button). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. For children, the dosage is also based on their weight. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product instructions. Wash your hands before using this medication. Follow the directions in the Instructions for Use leaflet to remove the medication from the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature for the stated amount of time before you inject it. Do not shake the medication. The medication should be clear or slightly yellow. Before using, check this product visually for cloudiness, particles, or discoloration. If you see any of these things, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject the drug into areas of the skin with scars or stretch marks or into skin that is irritated, sore, bruised, red, hardened, or affected by psoriasis. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. Do not reuse syringes.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2024.