Are you also worried about psoriasis? Or do you wake up in the morning with stiff and swollen joints? We know how difficult it is to live with such conditions. So, your doctor may have prescribed you a vaccine called Secukinumab to control these diseases. If the name sounds a bit complicated, don't worry. Today, we will talk in a very simple way about this medicine, how to use it, and what you need to be careful about.
What exactly is Secukinumab?
Simply put, Secukinumab is a special type of vaccine that controls some of the activities of our body's immune system. You may also see it under the brand name Cosentyx. Our body's immune system sometimes becomes overactive and starts attacking our own cells. This is when skin conditions like psoriasis and various types of arthritis occur. This medicine works by controlling that unwanted immune response.
There are several conditions for which this medicine is mainly used:
- Psoriasis: A condition in which red patches of skin develop, covered with a silvery, scaly layer.
- Psoriatic Arthritis: Swelling and pain in the joints that occur with psoriasis.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: An inflammatory condition that mainly affects the joints of the spine.
- Other inflammatory joint conditions: It is also used for some other joint conditions that the doctor determines are appropriate.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
This is very important . Before you start this medication, you should tell your doctor your complete health history. Don't hide anything, even the smallest details. Because that information will determine how suitable this medication is for you.
The most important thing is to be completely open with your doctor. Ask any questions you have, and don't be afraid to ask.
If you have any of the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor.
| Health condition or fact | Why should you notify? |
|---|---|
| Intestinal diseases (e.g. Crohn's disease, Ulcerative colitis) | This medication has the potential to worsen such conditions. |
| Immune system weaknesses | Because this drug suppresses the immune system, the doctor needs to be aware of how it may affect an already weakened system. |
| Current or recent infections (e.g. cold, cough, fever, herpes) | This medication may reduce your ability to fight infections, so it is important to treat existing infections. |
| Tuberculosis (TB) (Having TB disease, having a positive TB test, having close contact with a TB patient) | This medicine can reactivate latent TB germs in the body. Therefore, it is essential to get a TB test before treatment. |
| Having recently received or is scheduled to receive a vaccine | Some types of vaccines can cause problems with this medicine. |
| Pregnancy, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, it is very important to discuss the effects of the medication with the doctor. |
| Other allergies (For other medicines, rubber, latex, food, pigments) | Informing your doctor about any allergies you have can help prevent unwanted reactions. |
How is this vaccine used?
This vaccine is given as a subcutaneous injection. It is usually given for the first time in a hospital or clinic. You may then be trained to give it to yourself at home. If so, you should follow the instructions exactly as they are given.
- Follow your doctor's instructions: Take the prescribed dose, on the prescribed day, at the prescribed time, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking the medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
- Dispose of needles safely: Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Ask your doctor about a special sharps container for them.
- What if you miss a dose of medicine? If so, don't worry. Take that dose as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor.
- What if you overdose? If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to be careful about when taking this medicine
You need to take a little more care of your body while taking this medicine.
Be careful about infections.
Because this medicine suppresses the immune system to some extent, you may be slightly more likely to develop infections. So watch out for these symptoms:
- Fever or feeling cold
- Cough, sore throat
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Unusual body aches or fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not self-medicate and see a doctor immediately . Also, try to stay away from people who are sick.
Other medications and vaccines
Tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and herbal supplements). The following medications in particular may cause problems with this medicine:
- Live virus vaccines: Avoid receiving these while taking this medicine.
- Warfarin: A medication used to prevent blood clotting.
- Cyclosporine: Another drug that controls immunity.
- Inactivated vaccines: When receiving these, their effectiveness may be reduced.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects. But not everyone gets them. Don't be afraid, it's important to be aware of this.
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath, feeling of tightness in the chest. |
| Dizziness | Feeling like a hawk, eyes turning blue. |
| Intestinal problems | Severe stomach pain, diarrhea (especially if bloody), weight loss. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, persistent cough, sore throat. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Pain at the injection site | Redness, slight swelling, or pain at the injection site. |
| Cold-like symptoms | Runny nose, stuffy nose. |
How to store the medicine?
It is also very important to store this medicine properly.
- Refrigerate: Always store the vaccine on an inside shelf of the refrigerator, not in the door. Maintain the temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius (2°C - 8°C).
- Do not store in the freezer: Never store in the freezer. Do not use the medicine if it freezes.
- Do not shake: Do not shake the pen or syringe containing the vaccine.
- Protect from light: Keep in the original carton until ready for use.
- Keep out of reach of children: Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Expired medication: Do not use the medication if it has expired. Ask your doctor for advice on how to dispose of it safely.
Take-Home Message
- Secukinumab is an immune suppressant, so be aware of signs of infection.
- Before starting the medication , tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking.
- Follow your doctor's instructions exactly. Do not skip doses or take two doses at once.
- Store the medicine properly in the refrigerator. Never place it in the freezer.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else.
- If you experience any problems or serious side effects, seek medical advice immediately.
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