Can you get Shingrix before starting Cosentyx (secukinumab)?
Yes. Shingrix (recombinant zoster vaccine, not a live vaccine) can be given before starting Cosentyx, which is a biologic that can increase infection risk. Vaccinating ahead of time is often the preferred approach so you have protection before immunosuppression begins.
When should Shingrix be timed if you’re starting Cosentyx?
Shingrix is given as a 2-dose series. Many clinicians aim to complete the doses before immunosuppressive therapy starts when feasible, but the key practical point is that Shingrix is an inactivated/recombinant vaccine, so it does not rely on the same restrictions as live vaccines. Your prescriber can set the best schedule based on how soon you’ll start Cosentyx.
What if you already started Cosentyx—can you still get Shingrix?
Often yes. Because Shingrix is not a live vaccine, it can typically be used in people already receiving non-live immunosuppressive therapies. The main difference is that your immune response may be somewhat less than if you were vaccinated beforehand, so earlier is generally favored when possible.
Who should get Shingrix if they’re planning biologics?
Shingrix is generally recommended for adults at eligible ages and/or higher risk for shingles. People starting immunosuppressive drugs like Cosentyx are commonly advised to make sure they’re up to date, since shingles risk is higher with immunosuppression than in the general population.
What are the side effects people ask about with Shingrix?
Common side effects include pain or redness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and sometimes fever or chills—usually short-lived. If you’re planning to start Cosentyx, it’s reasonable to ask whether to time injections so you’re not dealing with symptoms during the first days of your biologic start.
What should you ask your doctor to decide the right plan for you?
Key questions to bring to your appointment:
- Whether you’ve ever had shingles and whether you’ve already had Shingrix doses.
- Your age and any other immunosuppressing medications you take.
- How soon you need to start Cosentyx for symptom control.
- Whether your clinic has a standard schedule for vaccinating before biologics.
Important safety note
If you’re currently sick with a fever or have an active serious infection, your clinician may delay vaccination until you recover.
Sources: None provided in the information available here.