Do I need regular vaccinations while on Cosentyx?
No, regular vaccinations are not needed specifically because of Cosentyx use, but vaccination status matters before and during treatment. Cosentyx (secukinumab), an IL-17 inhibitor for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, suppresses parts of the immune system, increasing infection risk. Guidelines recommend completing standard vaccinations before starting Cosentyx, especially live vaccines, which are contraindicated during treatment.[1][2]
What vaccinations should I get before starting Cosentyx?
Update routine vaccines like influenza, pneumococcal, shingles (Zostavax or Shingrix), hepatitis B, and COVID-19 prior to the first dose. Live vaccines (e.g., MMR, varicella, oral polio, yellow fever) must be given at least 4-6 weeks before Cosentyx to avoid dissemination.[1][3] Inactivated vaccines (most common ones) are safe and encouraged during treatment.
Can I get vaccines while taking Cosentyx?
Yes for inactivated or recombinant vaccines, such as:
- Annual flu shot
- Pneumococcal (Prevnar or Pneumovax)
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- HPV, hepatitis A/B
- Shingrix (recombinant shingles vaccine, preferred over live Zostavax)
Avoid live vaccines entirely during therapy and for several weeks after stopping. Consult your doctor for timing, as response to vaccines may be reduced.[2][4]
Why the concern with live vaccines on Cosentyx?
Cosentyx targets IL-17, which helps fight infections. Blocking it raises risks from live attenuated vaccines, which replicate in the body. No major interactions reported with inactivated ones, but efficacy might drop—booster doses could help high-risk patients.[3][5]
Cosentyx and COVID-19 or flu shots
Safe to get mRNA COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna) or protein-based ones (Novavax) while on Cosentyx. Annual flu shots are recommended yearly regardless. Real-world data shows no excess adverse events.[4][6]
What if I'm already on Cosentyx and need a vaccine?
Discuss with your rheumatologist or dermatologist. They may pause Cosentyx briefly for certain vaccines or monitor closely. No routine "regular" vaccinations are mandated beyond standard adult schedules.[1][2]
[1]: Cosentyx Prescribing Information (Novartis)
[2]: FDA Label for Secukinumab
[3]: American College of Rheumatology Guidelines on Vaccinations in Immunocompromised Patients
[4]: CDC Vaccine Recommendations for Immunosuppressed Adults
[5]: Novartis Cosentyx Safety Profile
[6]: Studies on Biologics and Vaccine Response (e.g., PubMed reviews)