Does cosentyx interaction affect live vaccine efficacy?

Can I get a live vaccine while taking Cosentyx?

Live vaccines can be a concern for patients taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx, a biologic treatment for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Cosentyx (secukinumab) is designed to block the activity of interleukin-17A, a protein involved in the body's immune response.

Will Cosentyx interfere with live vaccine effectiveness?

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Dermatology, patients taking Cosentyx may be at a higher risk of reduced effectiveness of live vaccines [1]. This is because Cosentyx suppresses the immune system, which can hinder the vaccine's ability to produce a strong response.

Why does this happen?

By suppressing the immune system, Cosentyx can weaken the body's ability to respond to live vaccines, which contain a weakened or inactivated form of the virus or bacteria. This can result in reduced vaccine effectiveness or, in some cases, increased risk of infection [2].

What vaccines should I avoid while taking Cosentyx?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that individuals taking immunosuppressive medications, including Cosentyx, avoid live vaccines and opt for inactivated vaccines whenever possible [3]. However, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before receiving any vaccine while taking Cosentyx to determine the best course of action.

Can I get a live vaccine before starting Cosentyx?

To ensure optimal effectiveness, it's recommended that patients receive all necessary live vaccines at least 4-6 weeks before starting Cosentyx or other immunosuppressive therapies [4].

What alternatives are available to live vaccines?

Inactivated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, are a safer choice for patients taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx. Inactivated vaccines cannot cause the disease they aim to prevent, as they are made from killed or weakened pathogens.

Sources:

[1] Gottlieb AB et al. (2018). Safety and efficacy of secukinumab in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial. JAMA Dermatology, 154(10), 1091–1101.

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). Vaccine and immunoglobulin guide for vaccines and immunoglobulins.

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). Immunocompromised persons and vaccines.

[4] American Academy of Dermatology (2022). Vaccinations for patients with psoriasis.