Can cosentyx impact live vaccine effectiveness?

Does Cosentyx Interfere with Live Vaccines?

Cosentyx, a medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, contains the biologic agent secukinumab, which can potentially interact with live vaccines. While there's no direct evidence that Cosentyx significantly impairs live vaccine effectiveness, users should exercise caution due to its immunosuppressive properties [1].

How Do Immunosuppressants Affect Live Vaccines?

Immunosuppressant medications, such as Cosentyx, can weaken the immune system, possibly reducing the body's ability to mount an adequate response to live vaccines. This is a concern since live vaccines work by exposing the body to a weakened or attenuated form of the pathogen, thereby stimulating a response without causing full-blown illness [2].

Can Live Vaccines be Taken with Cosentyx?

The manufacturer of Cosentyx advises against concurrent administration of live vaccines with secukinumab. However, if you need to receive a live vaccine while taking Cosentyx, you must discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. In general, it's recommended to delay vaccination until after completing at least one course of secukinumab treatment. [3][4]

Vaccine Safety Considerations

Although Cosentyx may not completely negate the effectiveness of live vaccines, individuals on secukinumab therapy should consult their healthcare provider before receiving any live vaccines. It's also essential to note that even without Cosentyx, live vaccines can pose some risks, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems.

What Happens if You Receive a Live Vaccine While Taking Cosentyx?

In the event that you do receive a live vaccine while on Cosentyx, closely monitor yourself for adverse reactions and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

References
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/database/securon-min/enUS/description
[2] https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/infectious-diseases/infectious-vaccinations/live-vaccines-vs-inactivated-vaccines
[3] secukinumab package insert, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfdadocs/label/2016/125513s003lbl.pdf, accessed March 2022
[4] http://www.cosentyxhcp.com/hcp/pi-pi.pdf