Cosentyx® (secukinumab) Injection for Psoriasis and Spondyloarthritis

What Cosentyx® Is and How It Works

Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a human monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin‑17A (IL‑17A). This Cosentyx medication is a biologic therapy used for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non‑radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. It is supplied as prefilled syringes and Sensoready autoinjector pens for subcutaneous injection. Many shoppers compare Cosentyx price without insurance when planning therapy costs and refills.

CanadianInsulin is a prescription referral service. Prescriptions are verified with your clinic, and orders are filled by licensed Canadian pharmacies. We work with licensed, vetted partner pharmacies to source authentic brand medicines across a broad selection at value‑focused pricing.

By blocking IL‑17A, secukinumab helps reduce inflammation that drives psoriatic plaques, joint pain, and axial symptoms. The usual Cosentyx injection schedule begins with a starter dose series followed by maintenance dosing every four weeks.

Dosage and Usage

• Starter dose for plaque psoriasis: 300 mg at weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 (given as two 150 mg injections at each visit). Some patients may use 150 mg based on response and tolerability.
• Maintenance dose for plaque psoriasis: 300 mg every 4 weeks (two 150 mg injections), or 150 mg every 4 weeks for selected patients.
• Psoriatic arthritis: 150 mg with or without a loading schedule (weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4) then every 4 weeks; may increase to 300 mg if response is inadequate. May be used with or without methotrexate.
• Ankylosing spondylitis and non‑radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: 150 mg with or without a loading schedule, then 150 mg every 4 weeks; some patients may require 300 mg.
• Missed dose: Administer as soon as remembered, then resume the regular every‑4‑week schedule. When uncertain, follow prescriber instructions.
• Injection sites: Thigh, abdomen (avoid 2 inches around the navel), or outer upper arm if given by a caregiver. Rotate sites; avoid tender, bruised, scaly, or inflamed skin.
• Administering Cosentyx pens: Remove from the refrigerator and allow to reach room temperature (about 15–30 minutes). Do not shake. Check that the solution is clear and colorless to slightly yellow. Clean the skin with an alcohol swab. Remove the cap, place the pen at 90 degrees, press and hold until the window shows completion. Dispose of the device in a sharps container.
• Administering prefilled syringes: Let the syringe warm to room temperature. Do not shake. Clean the site, remove the needle cap, pinch the skin, and inject as instructed. Dispose in a sharps container.

• Storage: Keep refrigerated at 2–8°C (36–46°F). Do not freeze. Keep in the original carton to protect from light.
• Room temperature: If needed, Cosentyx can be kept at room temperature up to 30°C (86°F) for up to 4 days. Do not return to the refrigerator once kept at room temperature.
• Travel: Use an insulated bag with cold packs to keep 2–8°C. Do not place directly on ice. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Carry onboard during flights.
• Handling: Do not use if the solution is cloudy, discolored, or contains particles. Do not use if dropped or damaged.

Benefits and Savings

Cosentyx uses a targeted IL‑17A mechanism that can deliver high skin‑clearance rates in plaque psoriasis and reduce joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in psoriatic arthritis. In axial spondyloarthritis, many patients report improved mobility and reduced inflammation markers. The dosing cadence is convenient after the starter phase, with maintenance injections every 4 weeks.

Many customers save 60–80% vs typical U.S. prices. Savings can help those paying without insurance or bridging coverage gaps. See our Cosentyx coupon information on the promotions page for current offers if available.

Side Effects and Safety

• Upper respiratory infections (cold symptoms, sore throat)
• Headache
• Diarrhea or nausea
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Cough
• Injection site reactions (redness, pain, swelling)
• Oral or skin yeast infections

Serious risks include serious infections and tuberculosis reactivation; screening and monitoring are standard. New or worsening inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) can occur. Severe hypersensitivity reactions are rare but possible. The pen and prefilled syringe needle caps contain a derivative of natural rubber latex. Avoid live vaccines during treatment. Discuss concurrent immunosuppressants and Cosentyx drug interactions with a clinician.

Onset Time

Some patients notice skin improvement within 2–4 weeks, with many reaching clearer skin by around week 12 as the dose stabilizes. Psoriatic arthritis joint symptoms may improve within 3–4 weeks, with gains continuing through 12–24 weeks. In ankylosing spondylitis and non‑radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, symptom relief can begin in the first month, with further response by 12–16 weeks.

Compare With Alternatives

Cosentyx is an IL‑17A inhibitor. Another IL‑17A option is Taltz® (Taltz), which uses a different loading pattern and a similar every‑4‑week maintenance schedule for psoriasis. A TNF inhibitor such as Enbrel® (Enbrel Pre Filled Syringe) is dosed more frequently, often once weekly, and has long safety experience across rheumatologic conditions. Choice depends on diagnosis, prior biologic use, comorbidities, and dosing preferences.

Within the IL‑17 class, Taltz® may be preferred in some psoriasis cases, while Cosentyx offers broad indications and steady monthly dosing. Enbrel® can be considered when TNF blockade is desired or when IL‑17A inhibition is not suitable. Device preferences also matter; both brands offer autoinjectors and syringes. Discuss specific goals, response history, and safety factors when comparing options.

Combination Therapy

• With methotrexate in psoriatic arthritis to support joint control; methotrexate is not required for efficacy.
• With NSAIDs for axial pain and stiffness as needed.
• With topical corticosteroids, vitamin D analogs, or emollients for skin maintenance.
• Avoid combining with other biologic immunomodulators or live vaccines.
• Screen for TB before starting; manage latent infection per guidelines before initiation.

Patient Suitability and Cost‑Saving Tips

Adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or non‑radiographic axial spondyloarthritis may be candidates based on clinical evaluation. Those with chronic or recurrent infections, active TB, or a history of inflammatory bowel disease may need alternative approaches or closer monitoring. People with latex sensitivity should note the needle caps contain a latex derivative.

Consider a multi‑month supply if prescribed to reduce per‑shipment costs and help maintain continuity. Align refills with travel plans and set gentle reminders ahead of maintenance doses. Compare Cosentyx pens and prefilled syringes to match device preference and training needs. Some patients also complete a manufacturer enrollment form for support services. CanadianInsulin offers value‑focused pricing and prompt, express, cold‑chain shipping to protect product integrity.

Authoritative Sources

Manufacturer patient site for Cosentyx (treatment overview and support)

FDA Drugs@FDA listing for Cosentyx (prescribing information and updates)

Health Canada Drug Product Database (DPD) search

Order Cosentyx® from CanadianInsulin: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express, cold‑chain handling.

This page is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about medications, dosing, and potential risks for your situation.