Quick Answer: Cosentyx must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C to preserve its efficacy. When refrigeration is not possible, it can be kept out of the fridge, below 30
Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a sensitive biologic medication that must be kept refrigerated and can only remain at room temperature for a limited period. Proper storage is crucial to maintaining its effectiveness, whether you’re at home or travelling.
So, how can you make sure your Cosentyx injections are stored correctly? What should you do to keep them cool when you’re on the go? Here’s a guide to help you store Cosentyx safely in any scenario!
Related article: 8 Practical Tips for Travelling with Arthritis!
What is Cosentyx?
Cosentyx is a prescription medicine containing secukinumab, used to treat conditions such as plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
This drug belongs to a class of medicines called interleukin inhibitors. Specifically, it works by blocking interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a protein that drives inflammation in autoimmune diseases. Overproduction of IL-17A can result in red, scaly patches on the skin in psoriasis, joint discomfort in psoriatic arthritis, and back stiffness in ankylosing spondylitis.
By targeting IL-17A, Cosentyx helps reduce inflammation, improving symptoms, slowing disease progression, and enhancing quality of life.
How is Cosentyx used?
Cosentyx is administered through subcutaneous injections (under the skin). Patients can self-inject the medication at home after receiving proper training from their healthcare provider.
It comes in easy-to-use prefilled devices, including:
- Cosentyx UnoReady pen (300 mg/2 mL)
- Cosentyx Sensoready pen (150 mg/1 mL)
- Cosentyx prefilled syringe (75 mg/0.5 mL)
Typically, Cosentyx is injected once a month after an initial five-week course of weekly injections. Dosages and schedules may vary depending on your condition and your doctor’s advice.
Remember, Cosentyx is prescription-only and should always be used under medical supervision. Speak to your healthcare provider about any side effects or concerns you may have.
Related article: How Long Can Humira Stay Out of the Fridge?
Cosentyx Storage Temperature
According to Novartis, the manufacturer of Cosentyx, the medication must be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C to preserve its efficacy. Always keep it in its original box to protect it from light.
Before injecting, allow Cosentyx to reach room temperature naturally for around 15 to 30 minutes. Do not use external heat sources like microwaves or hot water, as these can damage the medicine.
Do not freeze Cosentyx, and never shake the syringe or pen. If the medication has been frozen or shaken, it may no longer be effective—consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
As for any medication, Cosentyx storage instructions are located on its packaging. Read these instructions or ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you need clarification.
Related article: What Happens if Enbrel Is Not Refrigerated?
How Long Can Cosentyx Be Left Out of the Fridge?
Cosentyx is relatively flexible when it comes to storage. Studies show it remains stable for up to 4 days at room temperature, provided the temperature does not exceed 30°C.
Any pen or syringe that's been unrefrigerated longer than 4 days or exposed to temperatures above 30°C should be discarded, as it will no longer be effective.
Secukinumab, the active ingredient in Cosentyx, is a biologic medication derived from living cells. It is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and improper storage can lead to degradation, making the medication less effective or even unsafe to use.
Cosentyx Travel Kits
While storing Cosentyx at home is straightforward, keeping it cool while travelling can be more challenging. Using a medical-grade travel cooler ensures your medication stays within the recommended temperature range wherever you go.
There are two different types of travel kits and coolers for Cosentyx:
- Refrigerated travel cases to carry pens or syringes that need refrigeration
- Room-temperature cooling cases to carry pens that you will use within 4 days.
Related article: How to Travel with Refrigerated Medications
Portable Travel Fridges
For longer trips, portable travel fridges for medications are a reliable solution. Brands like 4AllFamily offer compact mini travel fridges that maintain temperatures between 2°C and 8°C for several days when travelling, working either with USB power or simple Biogel cooling packs.
These fridges make the ideal Cosentyx travel kits for flights, road trips, or any situation where consistent refrigeration is necessary.
Cosentyx Travel Cooling Cases
If your trip is shorter than 4 days and temperatures will exceed 30
Need help choosing the best travel kit for your Cosentyx injections? Contact 4AllFamily’s support team for personalised recommendations.
