Safety of secukinumab for the treatment of active ankylosing spondylitis

Introduction: Secukinumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody which targets and neutralizes interleukin (IL)-17A, a cytokine that plays an important role in the pathophysiology of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Secukinumab is the first IL-17A inhibitor approved for the treatment of AS. Areas covered: This paper aimed to evaluate the role of IL-17 in human beings, and the blocking of this cytokine with secukinumab while reviewing its efficacy and safety in the treatment of AS from data of MEASURE clinical trials. Expert opinion: MEASURE clinical trials showed efficacy and safety of secukinumab in patients with AS. Mild infections were the most frequent adverse event observed. Mucocutaneous candidiasis was a relatively common side effect due to the role of IL-17A in mucocutaneous defense against extracellular organisms. Secukinumab remained generally well tolerated over the longer-term. The combination of efficacy and safety makes secukinumab a good option of treatment for patients with AS refractory to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Automated summary

Secukinumab, the first IL-17A inhibitor approved for ankylosing spondylitis treatment, has shown efficacy and safety in patients with AS based on data from MEASURE clinical trials. The most common adverse event observed was mild infections, while mucocutaneous candidiasis was a relatively common side effect due to the role of IL-17A in mucocutaneous defense. Overall, Secukinumab remained generally well tolerated over the longer-term, making it a good treatment option for AS patients refractory to NSAIDs.