Why live vaccines are a problem with Cosentyx (secukinumab)
Cosentyx (secukinumab) blocks interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which plays an important role in fighting infections. Because of this immune effect, live vaccines can pose a risk in people taking biologic immune-modifying medicines. [1]
What you should do instead of getting live vaccines
Before starting Cosentyx, ask your clinician to review your vaccination history and plan what you need. If a live vaccine is required, clinicians typically prefer to give it before biologic treatment begins so the immune system has time to respond safely. [1]
If you are already on Cosentyx and you need vaccines, ask about non-live (inactivated or other non-live) vaccine options. Your care team can tell you which vaccines are safe for your specific situation and timing. [1]
How to time vaccines around starting or stopping Cosentyx
The safest timing depends on the specific vaccine and your treatment schedule, so the exact interval should come from your prescriber. In practice, vaccine planning is usually done:
- Before starting Cosentyx if live vaccination is needed. [1]
- With clear guidance from your clinician if you are already receiving Cosentyx and need any type of vaccination. [1]
How to reduce infection risk while on Cosentyx (practical steps)
You can’t eliminate infection risk, but you can lower it:
- Tell your healthcare team right away if you develop signs of infection (such as fever, worsening cough, burning with urination, or unusual skin infections).
- Keep up with recommended routine vaccinations that are considered safe for people on immunomodulating therapy (your clinician can confirm which ones).
- Follow standard infection-prevention habits (hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with people who are actively sick).
What to ask your doctor at your next visit
Bring your vaccine record (and any planned travel vaccines) and ask:
- “Which vaccines are live and should be avoided for me on Cosentyx?”
- “If I need a live vaccine, what is the latest point it can be given before I start (or continue) Cosentyx?”
- “Which non-live vaccines should I get now?”
- “What infections should prompt urgent contact with my care team?”
Quick safety check: which vaccines are typically considered “live”
Live vaccines are the ones generally avoided during immune-modifying therapy. Examples vary by country and schedule, but your clinician or pharmacist can identify whether a particular vaccine is live for your exact product. Do not rely on memory—confirm the vaccine type before receiving it. [1]
Sources
- Novartis. Cosentyx (secukinumab) prescribing information. (Live vaccines precautions and vaccination guidance). https://www.novartis.com/us-en/our-products/product-detail/cosentyx