Vaccines Recommended with Cosentyx
Cosentyx (secukinumab), an IL-17 inhibitor for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, suppresses parts of the immune system, raising infection risks. It mainly affects live vaccines, which replicate in the body and can cause disease in immunocompromised patients.[1]
Non-live (inactivated or recombinant) vaccines are generally safe and recommended during Cosentyx treatment. Guidelines from the manufacturer and health authorities include:
- Inactivated influenza vaccine (standard flu shot)
- Recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix for shingles)
- Inactivated polio vaccine (IPV)
- Pneumococcal vaccines (PCV13, PPSV23)
- Tdap/Td (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- Hepatitis A and B vaccines
- HPV vaccine
- Inactivated COVID-19 vaccines (e.g., Pfizer, Moderna mRNA; Novavax protein-based)
These can be given without interrupting Cosentyx, and experts encourage them to maintain protection.[1][2]
Vaccines to Avoid on Cosentyx
Live vaccines pose risks and are contraindicated at least 4-6 weeks before starting Cosentyx and during treatment, until immune recovery (typically 3-6 months after stopping).[1][3]
- Live attenuated influenza vaccine (FluMist nasal spray)
- Live zoster vaccine (Zostavax; discontinued in many places, replaced by Shingrix)
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Oral typhoid or rotavirus vaccines
- Live COVID-19 vaccines (e.g., J&J/Janssen, AstraZeneca in some regions; mRNA versions are non-live)
Discuss with your doctor; exceptions may apply if benefits outweigh risks (e.g., pre-treatment for unvaccinated adults).
Timing and Special Cases
- Before starting Cosentyx: Complete all live vaccines 4+ weeks prior.[1]
- COVID-19 specifics: All major COVID vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax) are non-live and safe; boosters follow standard schedules.[4]
- Kids and pregnancy: Limited data; non-live preferred. Shingrix is safe postpartum.[2]
- Immune response: Cosentyx may blunt response to some vaccines (e.g., pneumococcal); revaccination might be needed post-treatment.[3]
| Vaccine Type | Safe on Cosentyx? | Examples |
|--------------|-------------------|----------|
| Non-live/inactivated | Yes | Flu shot, Shingrix, Tdap, COVID-19 mRNA |
| Live/attenuated | No | FluMist, MMR, Zostavax |
What Doctors Say About Risks
Real-world data shows low serious infection rates with non-live vaccines on Cosentyx (e.g., <1% severe reactions in trials).[1] Patients report mild side effects like injection-site soreness, similar to unmedicated people. Monitor for infections; report fever or unusual symptoms. Novartis (Cosentyx maker) and ACR guidelines align on prioritizing non-live shots.[2][5]
Always consult your rheumatologist or doctor for personalized advice based on your health.
Sources
[1]: Cosentyx Prescribing Information (Novartis)
[2]: ACR Guidelines on Vaccinations in Rheumatic Diseases
[3]: CDC Vaccine Guidelines for Immunocompromised
[4]: CDC COVID-19 Vaccines
[5]: EULAR Recommendations on Vaccination