What's the recommended delay for live flu shot post cosentyx?

When to Get a Live Flu Shot After Cosentyx

[1] Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a biologic medication used to treat various inflammatory diseases, including psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis. Since it alters the immune system's function, it's crucial to follow the recommended delay between Cosentyx treatment and live vaccine administration, including the live flu shot.

Is the Live Flu Shot Different from the Inactivated Flu Shot?

The live flu shot, also known as the attenuated flu vaccine, contains a weakened form of the influenza virus. This is distinct from the inactivated flu shot, which contains a killed-inactivated form of the virus. The live flu shot is less commonly recommended for people with compromised immune systems, such as those taking biologic medications like Cosentyx.

Recommended Delay for Live Flu Shot After Cosentyx

According to the manufacturer's guidelines and medical professionals, it's generally recommended to delay live vaccine administration (including the live flu shot) for at least 4 weeks after the initiation or restart of Cosentyx treatment and for at least 4 weeks after dosage increases [2]. Consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary to determine the optimal timing for vaccination.

Precautions and Considerations

Before receiving any live vaccinations, patients taking biologic medications like Cosentyx should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend delaying live vaccine administration in individuals with weakened immune systems, which may include those on Cosentyx [3].

Consult Your Healthcare Provider

When planning to receive a live flu shot post-Cosentyx treatment, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific situation. They will be able to provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current treatment regimen.

Sources:
[1] Cosentyx (secukinumab) prescribing information. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
[2] Cosentyx. (n.d.). Secukinumab Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.cosentyx.com/-/media/Files/Prescribing-Information-Cosentyx.pdf
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Guidelines for Revaccination of Immunocompromised Patients. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vacc-specific/recs-by-vaccine/immunocompromised-patients.html?CDCAArefVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fvaccines%2Fhcp%2Fvacc-specific%2Frecommendations%2Fimmunocompromised-patients.html#general-guidelines-for-vaccine-administration-in-immunocompromised-patients