FDA approves Consentyx from Novartis

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday announced approval for Cosentyx (secukinumab), indicated for the treatment of adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

 

Psoriasis is a skin condition that results in patches of skin redness and irritation. It's an autoimmune disorder and appears more commonly in patients with a family history of the disease, according to the FDA. Plaque psoriasis is the most common form of the condition. Cosentyx is administered as an injection under the skin. It is intended for patients who are candidates for systemic therapy, phototherapy or a combination of the two, the agency stated. 

 

“Plaque psoriasis can cause significant skin irritation and discomfort for patients, so it is important to have a variety of treatment options available to patients,” said Amy Egan, M.D., M.P.H., deputy director of the Office of Drug Evaluation III in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.

 

Cosentyx is marketed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.