Cosentyx - Week 1....and beyond....

[mataribot]

My wife is on multiple insulins and she runs out of locations for shots. However, brusing with the PEN is common. I thought I had a better shot at winning the lotto. Swelling occurred sometimes for me, but not to frequently. Dermotologist recommend I try taking antihistamines 90 minutes before injection.

[Fred]

However, brusing with the PEN is common.

Interesting, I've never used them myself so can't comment. Is Cosentyx available in a normal pre-filled syringe do you know?

[Fred]

Interesting, I've never used them myself so can't comment. Is Cosentyx available in a normal pre-filled syringe do you know?

On Cosentyx website the PDF says:

Quote:

---

There are three presentations for COSENTYX (i.e., Sensoready pen, prefilled syringe, and lyophilized powder in vial for reconstitution).

So it could be worth asking for the Syringe next time.  

[mataribot]

I have the syringes. I can take pictures later and you can take a look at them.

[angel-1963]

I used almost the same injection site as last week which I hear is a NO NO.

No you must move to a different site each time.

#1 You can use your left then your right thigh.

#2 You can use the left and right side of your belly button. (*Keep a couple of inch's away from your belly button.)

#3 You can also use your left and right top of the arm, but more difficult on your own.

#4 You can also use your buttocks, but not many people do.  

When I was using Enbrel Twice a week I followed this protocol marked on my calendar for each shot.

Left Belly (LB)

Left Thigh (LT)

Right Thigh (RT)

Right Belly (RB)

And then start all over again.

That way you will avoid any problems of going in the same site to often.  

Hey Fred!

I prefer to always use my thighs.  Never the stomach.  Never an arm.    I have to do 3 more weeks of  2 injections each time.    I used both thighs, never into the same thigh.   I suppose if I move higher up on the thighs next week  and not in the middle of them will be okay?  Or closer to the side of each thigh instead of on top?   Thanks for your suggestions!!  

[Fred]

I suppose if I move higher up on the thighs next week  and not in the middle of them will be okay?  Or closer to the side of each thigh instead of on top?   Thanks for your suggestions!!  

Yes a couple of inches away and switch from left to right should be fine, if you can remember where you put the last couple.  

@Matari I think they are similar to the Stelara ones with the spring, I find them easy to use.

[mataribot]

There are the same; only difference is the cap is pain to get off.

[angel-1963]

My cosentyx pen is very easy to use.  I have to do 2 injections.   Cap comes right off.  You have to hold it at 90 degree angle though which could be hard when injecting on the side of my thigh.  I will have to try it though.   The pharmacist from cosentyx spoke with me today about the bruising at injection.  They said it is not uncommon but made it sound as if it doesn't happen too often.  Interesting.  I did the shot correctly.   I will try a higher area on my thigh next week.   It's a huge bruise - about 2 inches.   The lump has gone down all the way.  That was temporary.  I made sure the medication was at room temp for 30 min. also.

[angel-1963]

My cosentyx pen is very easy to use.  I have to do 2 injections.   Cap comes right off.  You have to hold it at 90 degree angle though which could be hard when injecting on the side of my thigh.  I will have to try it though.   The pharmacist from cosentyx spoke with me today about the bruising at injection.  They said it is not uncommon but made it sound as if it doesn't happen too often.  Interesting.  I did the shot correctly.   I will try a higher area on my thigh next week.   It's a huge bruise - about 2 inches.   The lump has gone down all the way.  That was temporary.  I made sure the medication was at room temp for 30 min. also.

[angel-1963]

Third week of injections of my start up with Cosentyx. Tried my outer thigh and wasn't pressing firm enough and had Cosentyx dripping down my leg. UGH. Other injection was done in other thigh further towards the top. No bruising at all this week and no bleeding. I am afraid of doing injection in my abdomen. Don't ask me why. I have a fatty liver and want to stay away from the right side of my abdomen I guess. The only improvement I am seeing so far with my plaque psoriasis is less flakiness and less pain somewhere in the areas on the bottom of my leg.  Also somewhat less itchiness.  Positive thinking....

ALT liver enzyme slightly high at 62.   According to lab should be 32 or lower.  Mine always hovers around 52.   So it only went up 10.   All other liver function tests normal.   Will visit liver doc on 7/31.   The PA at the dermos office seemed kind of clueless today about liver tests, etc.   She told me follow up with my liver/gastro doc.  He is the best!  Top guy in the city.  He is familiar with biologics as he prescribes Humira for Crohns, etc.   I look forward to my visit with him.  

I am hoping between weeks 4 and 5 of Cosentyx I too see a lot of improvement. This seems to be the magical weeks for a lot of people for some reason. It's so hard being patient sometimes! lolo