Secukinumab is a medication that works by targeting and blocking a protein in the body that causes inflammation. It is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously) and is used to treat giant cell arteritis, which is a condition that causes inflammation in blood vessels. This medication helps reduce inflammation and manage symptoms of the disease.

Glucocorticoids are a type of steroid medications that help reduce inflammation throughout the body. In this trial, they are used in a gradually decreasing dose (called a taper regimen) alongside the main treatment. Glucocorticoids are commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions and help control symptoms while other treatments begin to work.

Giant cell arteritis – A chronic inflammatory condition that affects large and medium-sized blood vessels, particularly those in the head, neck, and arms. The disease causes inflammation of the arteries’ lining, which leads to swelling and thickening of arterial walls. This condition typically develops gradually and commonly affects the temporal arteries running along the temples. The inflammation can cause symptoms such as persistent headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain during chewing, and general fatigue. Giant cell arteritis most frequently occurs in adults over 50 years of age, with women being affected more commonly than men.