New Psoriasis Drug Approved

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The anti-psoriasis drug Cosentyx (secukinumab) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Psoriasis in an immune system disorder that causes red, scaly patches of skin. It occurs most often in people aged 15 to 35, and among those with a family history of the disease, the agency said Wednesday in a news release.

Cosentyx’s active ingredient is a human antibody that inhibits a protein involved in inflammation. The injected drug’s safety and effectiveness were evaluated in clinical studies involving more than 2,400 people with plaque psoriasis. The drug was found to clear psoriasis plaques from skin significantly better than a placebo, the FDA said.

Since the drug affects the immune system, users may be at greater risk of infection. Serious allergic reactions to Cosentyx also are possible, the FDA warned.

The drug’s most common side effects are diarrhea and upper respiratory infection.

Cosentyx is marketed by Novartis, based in East Hanover, N.J.

More information

Visit the FDA to learn more.

Source: HealthDay

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