SECUKINUMAB
Background and Date of Approval
Secukinumab is a monoclonal antibody (protein which attaches to a specific target) which was approved for its medical use on 10th November 2014.
Uses
Secukinumab Injection has been developed to treat various inflammatory conditions like plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, radiographic and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis and ankylosing spondylosis.
How is it administered?
Secukinumab is available as a powder for solution for injection in the dose 150mg, intended for subcutaneous administration. For adults with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, the recommended dose is 300mg subcutaneous injection once a week for 4 weeks. For paediatric patients and adults with axial spondyloarthritis, the recommended dose is 150mg once a week for 4 weeks.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Secukinumab Injection are upper respiratory tract infections, cold sores, diarrhoea, runny nose, athleteâs foot, headache, nausea, tiredness. If you experience allergies, fever, infection, flu-like symptoms, blisters and breathlessness during this treatment, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Do not receive Secukinumab Injection if you are having an active infection. Contact your healthcare provider right away if you develop any symptoms of infection while on treatment with Secukinumab. Secukinumab is not recommended if you are allergic to latex, Secukinumab or any of its ingredients, have a history of tuberculosis. Tell your healthcare provider if you have been diagnosed with heart problems, nervous system disorders, ulcerative colitis or Crohnâs disease. During this treatment your physician may monitor your vitals to prevent serious complications. Inform your health care provider if you are about to undergo any dental or surgical procedures. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice dark urine, yellowing of skin, red, scaly patches on skin, unusual bruising, breathing trouble, hives or chest pain.
Precautions
Ask your health care provider for advice if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, planning to have a baby, or breastfeeding your baby. Secukinumab is probably unsafe during pregnancy. Tell your doctor before you breastfeed your baby. Your doctor will decide whether you should receive Secukinumab Injection or breastfeed depending on your condition. Discuss effective contraceptive methods with your healthcare provider and consider using them for at least 20 weeks after the last dose of Secukinumab.
Word of Advice
Check with your health care provider before receiving any vaccines and inform them if you are taking any other medications or herbal supplements.
References
Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Feb 2022] [Accessed on 27th Oct 2022], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.3669.pdf Ahmed A. Negm, & Daniel E. Furst, NSAIDs, Antirheumatic Drugs, Nonopioid Analgesics, & Drugs Used in Gout, Langeâs Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 642-666.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you know before starting treatment with Secukinumab Injection?
Before starting treatment with Secukinumab, it is important to get tested for pregnancy, Hepatitis B, active and latent tuberculosis and the presence of other infections.
Is it safe to use Secukinumab Injection by yourself?
You can inject Secukinumab Injection by yourself only after receiving proper training from your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to undergo a surgery during the treatment with Secukinumab Injection?
Secukinumab Injection is associated with increased risk of bruising. Hence it is advisable to consult your healthcare practitioner before going for surgery or dental procedure during this treatment. Your doctor might recommend to discontinue the treatment for the time-being.
What should you not take with Secukinumab injection?
It is not recommended to live vaccines while on treatment with Secukinumab Injection. Tell your healthcare provider if you are taking any prescription medicines, over-the counter drugs, vitamins or herbal supplements.
How to store Secukinumab injection?
Refrigerate Secukinumab Injection at a temperature between 2-8°C in its original container away from light. Do not freeze the injection. Discard the unused portion.
Who should not take Secukinumab injection?
Secukinumab Injection is not recommended for patients who are allergic to Secukinumab and its ingredients, natural rubber latex. Tell your healthcare provider if you have been diagnosed with any food allergies or sensitivities.
How long does it take for Secukinumab to work?
Secukinumab can take about 3 weeks to a year to start working, depending on your condition. It can take up to 12 weeks to achieve improvement in symptoms of pain and irritation with Secukinumab Injection.