Can you get the flu vaccine while on Cosentyx?
Yes, it's generally safe to combine Cosentyx (secukinumab) with the inactivated influenza vaccine. Clinical studies and guidelines from health authorities like the CDC recommend it for patients on biologics like Cosentyx, which suppresses IL-17 and mildly affects immune response but does not contraindicate standard inactivated vaccines.[1][2]
Does Cosentyx weaken the flu vaccine's effectiveness?
Cosentyx may reduce antibody response to the flu vaccine by 20-30% in some patients, based on immunogenicity studies in psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis trials. Vaccine effectiveness remains adequate for most, but higher-risk patients (e.g., elderly or immunocompromised) might need monitoring or revaccination.[3][4]
What do guidelines say about vaccines on Cosentyx?
Novartis, Cosentyx's manufacturer, advises updating all inactivated vaccines like flu before starting treatment, but it's safe to vaccinate during therapy. Live vaccines (e.g., nasal flu spray) are not recommended due to infection risk. CDC and EULAR guidelines align, prioritizing flu shots for biologic users.[1][5]
Are there risks or side effects from combining them?
No increased adverse events reported in studies combining Cosentyx with flu vaccine. Common flu shot side effects (soreness, mild fever) occur normally, and Cosentyx does not amplify infection risk from inactivated vaccines. Avoid if actively infected.[2][3]
How does Cosentyx affect other vaccines?
Cosentyx allows pneumococcal, shingles (Shingrix), COVID-19, and hepatitis vaccines. Live vaccines like yellow fever or varicella require pausing Cosentyx for 4-6 months due to immunosuppression concerns.[5][6]
What do patients and doctors report?
Real-world data from registries show high flu vaccination rates among Cosentyx users with no safety signals. Rheumatologists often encourage annual flu shots, timing them before peak season if possible.[4]
[1]: CDC: Vaccines for Immunocompromised Adults
[2]: Novartis Cosentyx Prescribing Information
[3]: PubMed: Immunogenicity of Influenza Vaccine in IL-17 Inhibitors
[4]: EULAR Recommendations for Vaccination in Rheumatic Diseases
[5]: FDA Cosentyx Label
[6]: ACR Guidelines on Vaccinations in Adults with Rheumatic Diseases