Can live vaccines be taken during cosentyx use?

Can you take live vaccines while using Cosentyx (secukinumab)?

Cosentyx (secukinumab) is an immunosuppressive medicine, so live vaccines are generally not recommended during treatment. Live vaccines contain weakened forms of a virus or bacteria, and using them while your immune system is suppressed can increase the risk of getting the infection the vaccine is meant to prevent.

What about non-live (inactivated) vaccines?

Non-live vaccines (such as flu shots that are not the live-attenuated form, pneumococcal vaccines, and other inactivated vaccines) are generally preferred for people taking biologic immunomodulators like Cosentyx. These can typically be given, but your clinician may adjust timing based on your specific situation and other medications.

How long should you wait between stopping Cosentyx and getting a live vaccine?

The safest timing depends on your dosing schedule and how much immunosuppression you still have. Guidance is often based on the prescribing information and the prescribing clinician’s risk assessment. If you’re considering a live vaccine, it’s important to ask your prescriber or pharmacist before scheduling it.

What patients should do before getting any vaccine

Talk to your healthcare team before receiving a vaccine if you are currently on Cosentyx or plan to start soon. They can confirm whether the vaccine you want is live or inactivated and advise on timing to reduce risk.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com (Cosentyx/secukinumab information and references): https://www.drugpatentwatch.com