Secukinumab is a powerful immunomodulator medicine, administered as a subcutaneous injection, primarily used to treat spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease.
| Drug class | Biologic (Anti-IL17) |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Subcutaneous Injection |
| Common strength | 150 / 300 mg |
| Common Indian brands | Cosentyx |
| Prescription status | Prescription |
What Secukinumab is used for
Secukinumab is a powerful medicine prescribed by specialists at Pristine Eye Hospitals to treat certain inflammatory eye conditions. It is specifically used for:
- Spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease: This refers to eye inflammation that can occur in individuals who have spondyloarthritis, a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine but can also impact other joints and organs, including the eyes.
It’s important to note that while Secukinumab is used for spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease, its effectiveness specifically for uveitis (a common type of eye inflammation) can be limited or uncertain. Your doctor will determine if this medicine is suitable for your specific condition.
How it works
Secukinumab belongs to a category of medicines called immunomodulators, and more specifically, it is a biologic medicine. Biologics are medicines made from living organisms or their products. Secukinumab works by targeting and blocking a specific protein in your body called Interleukin-17A (IL-17A).
IL-17A is a natural protein that plays a key role in inflammation and immune responses. In certain conditions, an overactive immune system can produce too much IL-17A, leading to inflammation and damage in various parts of the body, including the eyes. By blocking IL-17A, Secukinumab helps to reduce this inflammation and calm down the overactive immune response, thereby helping to manage the symptoms of spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease.
Because it modulates your immune system, Secukinumab is considered a powerful medicine and is used only under strict medical supervision.
How it’s used
Secukinumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is given just under the skin. The specific strength of the injection will be determined by your doctor, available in 150 mg or 300 mg doses.
Typically, after an initial ‘loading’ phase where you might receive doses more frequently, Secukinumab is administered monthly. Your doctor or a trained healthcare professional will show you how to administer the injection correctly, or it may be given to you at the hospital or clinic. It is crucial to follow their instructions precisely regarding the dose, frequency, and technique of injection.
Do not change your dose or stop using this medicine without consulting your doctor, as this could affect your treatment outcome. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your progress and ensure the medicine is working effectively and safely for you.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Cosentyx
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Please note
Powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system. Screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis is usually required before starting, and it raises the risk of infection. Used only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring.
Precautions & side effects
Secukinumab is a powerful medicine that requires careful consideration and monitoring due to its effects on the immune system. Here are some important precautions and warnings:
- Immune System Suppression: This medicine suppresses your immune system, which can make you more susceptible to infections. It is crucial to report any signs of infection (like fever, chills, sore throat, persistent cough, or unusual fatigue) to your doctor immediately.
- Screening for Infections: Before starting Secukinumab, your doctor will usually conduct screenings for certain infections, particularly tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis. This is because suppressing the immune system can reactivate dormant infections.
- Risk of Infection: As your immune system is suppressed, your risk of developing new infections increases. Be vigilant about hygiene and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Specialist Supervision and Monitoring: Secukinumab is only used under the supervision of a specialist doctor who will regularly monitor your health throughout the treatment course. This monitoring helps to ensure the medicine is safe and effective for you and to detect any potential side effects early.
- Uveitis Efficacy: It’s important to understand that while Secukinumab is used for spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease, its effectiveness specifically for uveitis (a type of eye inflammation) can be limited or uncertain. Your doctor will discuss this with you.
- Prescription Only: This is a prescription-only medicine and should never be used without a doctor’s recommendation and supervision.
Always discuss your complete medical history, including any past infections, other medicines you are taking, and any allergies, with your doctor before starting Secukinumab. Your doctor will weigh the benefits against the potential risks to determine if this treatment is right for you.
Understanding Spondyloarthritis-Associated Eye Disease
Spondyloarthritis is a group of inflammatory diseases that primarily affect the spine, causing pain and stiffness. However, these conditions can also affect other joints and organs, including the eyes. When the eyes are affected, it often manifests as a condition called uveitis. Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye that contains many blood vessels. The uvea includes the iris (the coloured part of your eye), the ciliary body, and the choroid. Inflammation in this part of the eye can lead to various symptoms such as redness, pain, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and blurred vision. If left untreated, severe or recurrent uveitis can lead to serious complications, including glaucoma, cataracts, and even permanent vision loss. Therefore, early diagnosis and effective management are crucial to protect your eyesight. Your ophthalmologist at Pristine Eye Hospitals works closely with other specialists, such as rheumatologists, to provide comprehensive care for patients with spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease, ensuring that both the systemic and ocular aspects of your condition are managed effectively.
General Advice for Eye Health and Medicine Use
When you are undergoing treatment for an eye condition, especially with powerful medicines like Secukinumab, it is vital to maintain good general eye health and follow all instructions carefully. Even though Secukinumab is an injection, maintaining overall eye hygiene is important. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your eyes or administering any eye drops or ointments, if prescribed alongside your injection. Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially with unwashed hands, as this can introduce germs and worsen irritation or infection. If you wear contact lenses, your doctor will advise you whether you should continue using them during your treatment. Generally, it’s often recommended to avoid contact lenses during active eye inflammation or when using certain eye medicines. Store all medicines, including Secukinumab, as directed by your doctor or pharmacist, usually in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Never share your medicine with others, as it is prescribed specifically for your condition and could be harmful to someone else.
When to Seek Medical Help
While Secukinumab is an effective medicine for managing spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease, it is crucial to be aware of when to seek immediate medical attention. Because this medicine suppresses your immune system, you must be vigilant for any signs of infection. Contact your doctor at Pristine Eye Hospitals immediately if you experience any of the following: fever, chills, persistent cough, sore throat, unusual fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or any new or worsening pain or swelling. These could be signs of an infection that needs prompt treatment. Additionally, if you notice any changes in your vision, such as increased blurring, new floaters, flashes of light, severe eye pain, or worsening redness, do not delay in contacting your ophthalmologist. Even if these symptoms seem minor, they could indicate a flare-up of your eye condition or a potential side effect. Regular follow-up appointments with your specialist are essential to monitor your progress and detect any issues early. Always keep your doctor informed about any new symptoms or concerns you may have during your treatment with Secukinumab.
Frequently asked questions
What is Secukinumab used for?
Secukinumab is a powerful immunomodulator medicine used to treat spondyloarthritis-associated eye disease, which is an eye inflammation linked to a type of arthritis affecting the spine and other joints.
How does Secukinumab work?
Secukinumab works by blocking a specific protein in the body called Interleukin-17A (IL-17A). By blocking IL-17A, it helps to reduce inflammation and calm down an overactive immune response that contributes to the eye condition.
What are the common Indian brands for Secukinumab?
In India, Secukinumab is available under the brand name Cosentyx.
How is Secukinumab administered?
Secukinumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is given just under the skin. After an initial loading phase, it is typically given monthly.
Do I need a prescription for Secukinumab?
Yes, Secukinumab is a powerful prescription-only medicine and must only be used under the direct supervision and recommendation of a specialist doctor.
What are the key precautions to take with Secukinumab?
Secukinumab suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. You will usually be screened for tuberculosis and hepatitis before starting. It must be used under specialist supervision with regular monitoring, and any signs of infection should be reported to your doctor immediately.
References
- Eye health – MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine)
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
- StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.