How it works

Cosentyx is the brand name (trade name) for secukinumab, a medication used to treat plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other conditions.

Secukinumab (Cosentyx) works by selectively binding to the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin 17A (IL-17A), which is produced by T-helper cells. Innate immunity (natural immunity) to infecting substances is mediated by IL-17A, and it can also contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Secukinumab inhibits the interaction of IL-17A with the IL-17 receptor, thereby preventing inflammation.

Cosentyx belongs to the class of drugs known as interleukin inhibitors. It is also known as a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody.