What it is used for

Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis
Axial spondyloarthritis, including ankylosing spondylitis
Hidradenitis suppurativa
Juvenile psoriatic and enthesitis-related arthritis

Read our guides:

Psoriasis

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Secukinumab is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Secukinumab is an antibody that blocks interleukin-17A, a protein that drives inflammation in the skin and joints. This reduces plaques, joint pain and swelling.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Secukinumab can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

colds and sore throats
cold sores
diarrhoea
headache
a runny nose
pain where you inject

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

signs of a serious infection, such as a high temperature or feeling very unwell
severe stomach pain or bloody diarrhoea, which can be signs of inflammatory bowel disease

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

You will be checked for tuberculosis (TB) before starting.
Avoid live vaccines.
Tell your team if you have Crohn's disease or colitis.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.