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Secukinumab Auto-Injector (SECUKINUMAB - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • arthritis
  • psoriasis

Brand Name(s): Cosentyx

Generic Name: Secukinumab

Instructions

This medicine is injected into the skin. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist where on your body this medicine can be injected and how to inject it.

The liquid should be clear or light yellow.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Do not shake the medicine before using.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

Keep the medicine in its original container.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Speak with your nurse or pharmacist about how long the medicine can be stored safely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before it needs to be discarded.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

Discard any remaining medicine after your dose is given.

Please ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist how to discard unused medicines safely.

Wash your hands before and after handling this medicine.

You or a family member can be trained to give this medicine at home.

Avoid injecting the medicine within 2 inches around the navel.

Do not inject into skin that is red, swollen or itchy.

If your dose is 2 syringes or injections, inject each in 2 different locations.

Change the location of the injection each time. Choose a location at least 1 inch from the last injection.

Do not rub or massage the area where the injection was given.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to latex.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Talk to your doctor before taking other medicines, including aspirins and ibuprofen containing products. Speak to your doctor about which medicines are safe to use while you are on this medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Your doctor should check you for tuberculosis (TB) before you start this medicine and while you are using it. Tell your doctor if you are being treated for TB or any other infection.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • diarrhea

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • coughing
  • severe, watery or bloody diarrhea
  • fever or chills
  • sore throat
  • stomach pain
  • yeast infection of mouth

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.