See the DrugPatentWatch profile for cosentyx
Can you get vaccinated while taking Cosentyx (secukinumab)?
Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a medicine that suppresses part of the immune system. Because of that, vaccine guidance depends on the type of vaccine. People taking Cosentyx are generally advised to avoid live vaccines and to use inactivated (non-live) vaccines when available [1][2].
What types of vaccines should you avoid?
Live vaccines are the key concern. Examples include vaccines that contain weakened live viruses (for example, certain shingles or measles/mumps/rubella formulations, depending on the specific product and country). Live vaccines are typically avoided while on Cosentyx [1][2].
What vaccines are usually considered okay?
Non-live (inactivated or recombinant) vaccines are usually allowed during treatment with Cosentyx, including routine vaccines such as influenza (the shot, not the nasal spray), pneumococcal vaccines, and COVID-19 vaccines, based on local recommendations [1][2].
Do vaccines still work well on Cosentyx?
Cosentyx can reduce immune responses, so some vaccines may produce a weaker antibody response than in people not on immunosuppressive therapy. That said, vaccination is still commonly recommended to provide protection where possible, especially for vaccines that prevent serious infections [1][2].
When should you time vaccines—before or after starting Cosentyx?
If you need vaccination, clinicians often try to give needed non-live vaccines before starting immunosuppressive therapy when feasible. For vaccines after starting, timing is usually coordinated with your prescriber to balance infection protection and immune response [1][2].
What if you already got a vaccine while on Cosentyx?
If you received a live vaccine while taking Cosentyx, contact your prescribing clinician promptly. They can assess what vaccine it was and whether any monitoring or follow-up is needed [1][2].
Who decides for you—rheumatology/dermatology or primary care?
Your dermatologist or rheumatologist (who manages Cosentyx) should coordinate vaccine decisions, often with your primary care clinician, especially if you’re planning travel vaccines or vaccines not part of routine schedules [1][2].
Sources
- Cosentyx prescribing information (SECUKINUMAB) — vaccine/live vaccine precautions. https://www.cosentyx.com/
- U.S. prescribing information / medication guide for Cosentyx, secukinumab — guidance on vaccinations and live vaccines. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/