Can you get a flu vaccine if you take Cosentyx (secukinumab)?
Cosentyx (secukinumab) suppresses interleukin-17 (IL‑17). In general, people on immune-modifying biologics are advised to receive non-live vaccines, which usually includes the seasonal flu shot. Live vaccines are typically avoided while on these medicines.
If you tell your clinician which flu vaccine you’re planning (shot vs nasal spray) and your Cosentyx dosing schedule, they can confirm what’s appropriate for you.
Flu shot vs nasal spray: which one is safer with Cosentyx?
The seasonal “flu shot” is an inactivated (non-live) vaccine, while the nasal spray flu vaccine is live-attenuated. With immune-modifying therapy like Cosentyx, the inactivated flu shot is generally the option used, and the nasal spray is generally avoided.
Will Cosentyx make the flu vaccine less effective?
Anti–IL‑17 therapy can change immune responses. Even so, vaccination is still recommended for most patients because flu can be more dangerous when the immune system is altered. Your clinician may advise timing around your dose, but the key point is that vaccination is usually still beneficial.
When should you schedule the flu shot relative to Cosentyx?
A common practical approach is to vaccinate when your next Cosentyx dose is due (so you don’t miss treatment), using your prescribing clinician’s guidance. Some clinicians prefer vaccinating at a point where you’re not at the peak of immunosuppression, but specific instructions depend on your overall risk and treatment plan.
What flu shot should you ask for?
People on biologics typically follow the same seasonal recommendations as other adults (including the choice of updated seasonal formulations). If you are higher risk (older age, chronic lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, etc.), your clinician may recommend a higher-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccine option, depending on local guidance.
What should you do if you already got the nasal spray or missed a vaccine?
If you received the nasal spray (live) while on Cosentyx, contact your prescriber promptly for individualized advice. If you missed flu vaccination this season, ask your clinic about catch-up vaccination and the safest vaccine type for your current Cosentyx regimen.
Sources
No specific Cosentyx/flu vaccination labeling details were provided in the prompt, and no external sources were included. If you share what country you’re in (US/EU/UK/etc.) or whether you mean the flu shot or nasal spray, I can tailor the guidance more precisely.