Can you get a flu shot right after Cosentyx (secukinumab)?
Cosentyx (secukinumab) is an immunomodulating biologic used for conditions like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. For people taking it, the usual guidance is that they can receive an inactivated flu shot (the standard “flu vaccine”) without needing to wait for a special interval tied to the dose.
Because “how long to wait” can depend on which type of flu shot you mean (inactivated vs live), the safest rule is:
- Get an inactivated (shot) flu vaccine.
- Live flu vaccines should be avoided while on immunosuppressive therapy.
Do you need to time the flu shot around your Cosentyx dose?
There isn’t a standard “wait X days after Cosentyx” requirement for an inactivated flu shot. Many patients can be vaccinated as scheduled, ideally before flu season peaks or during the current season, without delaying their Cosentyx regimen.
What if you mean the nasal spray flu vaccine?
The nasal spray flu vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine. Live vaccines are generally not recommended for people on immunomodulating biologics like Cosentyx. If you were asking about the nasal spray, you typically should not use it while taking Cosentyx, and you should ask your clinician what alternative is appropriate.
When should you check with your clinician?
Ask your prescribing clinician or pharmacist if:
- You’ve had a recent infection or fever.
- Your flu shot is being considered during a period of active illness.
- You’re considering a non-standard vaccine type (not the standard injectable flu shot).
If you tell me which flu shot you’re getting (the standard injection or the nasal spray) and when your last Cosentyx dose was, I can help you narrow down the practical timing question.