Can You Get Cosentyx with the COVID-19 Vaccine?
People on Cosentyx (secukinumab), an IL-17 inhibitor for psoriasis and arthritis, can receive COVID-19 vaccines. No broad contraindications exist. Clinical guidance from Novartis and health authorities like the CDC recommends vaccination for immunocompromised patients, including those on biologics like Cosentyx, as benefits outweigh risks.[1][2]
Does Cosentyx Weaken COVID-19 Vaccine Response?
Cosentyx suppresses IL-17, part of the immune system, which may blunt vaccine-induced antibody levels. Studies show:
- Lower anti-spike IgG titers post-mRNA vaccines (Pfizer/Moderna) in secukinumab users vs. healthy controls, but still protective against severe disease.[3]
- T-cell responses remain intact, aiding long-term immunity.[4]
Booster doses improve responses in these patients.[5]
Real-World Safety Data on Cosentyx and COVID Vaccines
Post-vaccination adverse events mirror general rates:
- Common: injection-site reactions, fatigue (no increase over baseline).
- Rare serious events (e.g., myocarditis) not linked to Cosentyx combo.[6]
A 2023 registry study of 1,200+ biologic users found no excess COVID breakthrough infections or hospitalizations when vaccinated.[7]
What Happens If You Get COVID While on Cosentyx?
Cosentyx users face higher severe COVID risk due to immune modulation:
- Observational data: 2-3x hospitalization odds vs. non-biologic psoriasis patients.[8]
Vaccination cuts this risk by 70-90%, even with muted antibody response.[9]
Pause Cosentyx dosing during acute infection if hospitalized; resume after recovery per prescriber.[2]
Doctor Recommendations and Timing
- Vaccinate anytime; no mandatory Cosentyx hold required pre-vaccine.[1]
- Space vaccines 1-2 weeks from Cosentyx doses if concerned about local reactions.[10]
Rheumatologists often prioritize vaccination, monitoring via antibody tests for high-risk cases.[5]
Alternatives During COVID Waves?
Switching biologics (e.g., to JAK inhibitors like Rinvoq) isn't routinely advised for COVID concerns, as all immunosuppressants carry risks. Non-biologic options like methotrexate may have less IL-17 impact but similar overall suppression.[11]
[1]: Novartis Cosentyx Prescribing Information
[2]: CDC Immunocompromised Vaccination Guidance
[3]: JAMA Dermatol 2022: Vaccine Response in Psoriasis Biologics
[4]: Ann Rheum Dis 2022: T-Cell Immunity Post-Vax
[5]: Rheumatology 2023: Boosters in IL-17 Inhibitors
[6]: Vaccine 2023: Safety in Immunosuppressed
[7]: J Am Acad Dermatol 2023: Psoriasis Registry Data
[8]: Lancet Rheumatol 2021: COVID Risks in Biologics
[9]: NEJM 2022: Vaccine Effectiveness in Immunocompromised
[10]: ACR COVID Vaccine Guidance 2023
[11]: Br J Dermatol 2022: Biologic Comparisons