Zest Health Guide to Cosentyx

(secukinumab)
What is Cosentyx and how does it work?

How do I take Cosentyx?

Getting started
Dosing Schedule
Loading Dose
Maintenance Dose
Dose reduction1
Scheduled treatment break2

Results to expect
Can I reduce my doses over time?
Is it safe? Are there side effects?
Important reminders
Can I afford it?
When to contact your Zest Team
Have more questions?

Contact your Zest care team by texting (865)-426-1746 or sending a chat message from your portal. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. Together, let’s work toward relief and clear skin!

Zest Health - Cosentyx Dose Reduction

(secukinumab)
What is Cosentyx and how does dose reduction work?

Cosentyx is a biologic injection that targets IL-17, a pro-inflammatory signal of your immune system that causes psoriasis. By calming this overactive response, Cosentyx helps reduce redness, plaque development and pain in your skin and joints. 

Dose reduction (DR) means we gradually lower the amount of medication you're taking while still keeping your condition under control. It's part of a personalized medicine approach with the goal to reduce risk of side effects and lower your overall medication needs while keeping your skin clear!

Am I a candidate for dose reduction?

Yes! At Zest every patient is a candidate for a personalized medicine approach. Your Zest provider will customize your treatment plan based on your goals and how your body responds. 

Here’s are some signs you might be ready for dose reduction:

  • Your condition is well controlled with clear skin and minimal symptoms.
  • You have been on Cosentyx treatment for at least 4 months.
Reduced Dosing Schedule
Standard dose
Step 1 dose reduction
Step 2 dose reduction
Scheduled treatment break1

1 injection every 4 weeks

1 injection every 6 weeks

1 injection every 8 weeks

4 months on average

1Regnault et al. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2022.

What to expect
  • Gradual, step-by-step changes: Your medication dose will be lowered slowly and carefully so we can find the lowest effective dose for you.
  • Close monitoring of your skin and symptoms: We’ll keep a close eye on your condition with regular check-ins to make sure your results stay stable and strong.
What are the benefits of dose reduction?
  • Take a well deserved break! Minimize the burden of managing your chronic condition
  • Get personalized care – take just what you need avoiding unnecessary medication 
  • Reduce the risk of unwanted side effects over time
  • Save money – reduce your out-of-pocket treatment costs
Are there risks to dose reduction?

Zest provides easy access to your care team so you are never alone in your treatment journey!

There is a small chance your skin condition could flare or worsen as we lower the dose. However, with close monitoring and proactive support, we are able to make quick adjustments to keep your skin under control. 

This careful approach helps reduce the overall risk of flares and keeps you feeling confident throughout the process.

Have more questions?

Contact your Zest care team by texting (865)-426-1746 or sending a chat message from your portal. You’ve got this, and we’ve got you. Together, let’s work toward relief and clear skin!

COSENTYX is a registered trademark of Novartis AG.

Third party trademarks used herein are trademarks of their respective owners.

Last updated: July 2025