HS does not affect adults alone
1. Overview
In March 2026, the IL-17A inhibitor secukinumab (Cosentyx) was approved by the US FDA for HS in patients aged 12 and older, extending treatment options beyond adults to younger patients.
2. Key points
Where US Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Novartis announcement, March 2026
Subject IL-17A inhibitor Secukinumab for moderate to severe HS: Expanded indication for patients aged 12 and older
Key points HS treatments have largely focused on adults. This approval
- extends treatment options to children and adolescents.
- Weight-based dosing
- Assessment based on adult and pediatric data
These are among the features described in the announcement.
This may reflect growing recognition in medical care that HS does not affect adults alone.
3. HSVCJ's perspective
HS symptoms often begin around puberty. However, HS is not always diagnosed at that stage, and I feel that many people live with what they regard as recurring boils.
Discussion of treatments for younger people may encourage appropriate care at an earlier stage.
Treatment choices depend on individual circumstances, and no treatment is appropriate for everyone.
We will continue to follow this development and changes in how HS is understood.
4. Sources
Official Novartis announcement https://www.novartis.com/news/media-releases/novartis-cosentyx-receives-fda-approval-pediatric-patients-aged-12-moderate-severe-hidradenitis-suppurativa
Coverage of FDA approval https://www.ajmc.com/view/fda-expands-secukinumab-approval-to-patients-12-years-and-older-with-hidradenitis-suppurativa
