Cosentyx alternatives: What can I take instead of Cosentyx?

In this article:

• Cosentyx alternatives
• Taltz
• Indacio
• Cimzia
• Skyrizi
• Xeljanz
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch

In this article

• Cosentyx alternatives
• Taltz
• Indacio
• Cimzia
• Skyrizi
• Xeljanz
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch

Cosentyx (secukinumab) is part of a wave of biologic medications that are changing the way we treat diseases. Derived from cells, like all biologics, Cosentyx is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the ability of interleukin-17A (IL-17A) to function in our immune system. This immunosuppressant is useful in quelling inflammation at the root of autoimmune conditions and is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. As effective as it can be, the side effects and expense of this injected medication can be daunting. Consider reviewing the alternatives before starting Cosentyx or during your treatment if difficulties arise.

What can I take instead of Cosentyx?

Specific options to replace Cosentyx will depend on the condition being treated, but there are several that have overlapping uses. The alternatives hail from the biologic category of drugs. Other IL-17A inhibitors are an obvious choice, but IL-12/IL-23 blockers, Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors (TNF-alpha) are also viable alternatives. 

All have the potency required to treat moderate to severe autoimmune disease, and like Cosentyx, they are typically not appropriate for mild cases. Their names are probably recognizable from advertisements, and now you can learn more about them.

Top 5 Cosentyx alternatives

The following are some of the most common alternatives to Cosentyx.

1. Taltz

Taltz is another biologic IL-17A inhibitor. Not surprisingly, the list of medical conditions for which it has FDA approval matches up well with Cosentyx. Side effects, namely serious infections related to immune suppression, are similar between the two. So, the reason you might be interested in Taltz is related to insurance coverage. If it is listed more favorably on your insurance formulary, your out-of-pocket copay could be less.

2. Indacio, a biosimilar to Humira

Indacio is a biosimilar to brand-name Humira, a TNF-alpha inhibitor. The term “biosimilar” means it has almost exactly the same chemical structure and shares the same FDA indications and dosing. Indacio is one of several biosimilar adalimumab products, which also include Hulio, Cyltezo, and Hyrimoz. This competition and lower development costs are why they have a lower price. If you take your SingleCare discount card or coupon to your pharmacy, you may be happy to find that a biologic med can be more affordable.

3. Cimzia

Cimzia is another TNF-alpha blocker with similar treatment potential to Cosentyx. If the IL-17A inhibitor is not working, your dermatologist or rheumatologist may suggest Cimzia as an alternative. At that point, the determining factor will be whether your insurance authorizes Cimzia. Your healthcare provider, insurance company, and the specialty pharmacy providing your biologic drugs will work together during the prior authorization process.

4. Skyrizi

Two other messengers in our immune system’s inflammatory cascade are IL-12 and IL-23. Skyrizi interrupts this portion. If Cosentyx proves inadequate, Skyrizi could be considered if its price is acceptable. Unlike Cosentyx, it also has indications for treating inflammatory bowel disease, including both Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. Another advantage of the drug is Skyrizi’s less frequent dosing, every 12 weeks. Who doesn’t want fewer injections?

5. Xeljanz

If avoiding injections is a high priority, the small molecule JAK inhibitor Xeljanz may be worth considering. Unlike injected Cosentyx, Xeljanz is taken as a twice-daily pill. It not only has FDA indications for treating plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, but also shares some of the same side effect warnings and cost concerns as other biologics. 

Natural alternatives to Cosentyx

When it comes to moderate to severe cases of autoimmune arthritis and psoriasis, consult your doctor before considering natural alternatives to biologics. The stakes are high, so consult a healthcare provider before taking any action. For mild psoriasis, consider exploring vitamin D, vitamin E, aloe, and omega-3, which are among the products listed in a comprehensive review. Turmeric is another herbal remedy being investigated for psoriasis, and, like vitamin D, it may also be beneficial for psoriatic arthritis, according to a case report. The potential benefits must be weighed against potential harms, just as with any natural alternative.

How to switch to a Cosentyx alternative

If you stop Cosentyx, a withdrawal syndrome is not really a concern, but the return of disease-related symptoms certainly is. Any change to your treatment regimen should be reviewed with the healthcare professionals on your team. Considering the benefits, adverse effects, drug interactions, price, and insurance coverage of any Cosentyx alternative is complex. Call your healthcare provider and discuss your concerns about Cosentyx, as well as your thoughts on other options, now that you are more informed.