What risks do live vaccines pose after cosentyx?

Can I still get vaccinated with live vaccines after Cosentyx?

Cosentyx (secukinumab) is a medication used to treat various autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Live vaccines are a type of vaccine that contain a weakened or attenuated form of the virus or bacteria that causes the disease. These vaccines can pose a risk of infection to immunocompromised individuals or those taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx [1].

Risks of live vaccines after Cosentyx:

While not an exhaustive list, some live vaccines to be cautious with after Cosentyx include:

- MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine [2]
- Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine
- Rotavirus vaccine
- Live intranasal influenza vaccines

These vaccines can pose a risk of infection due to Cosentyx's immunosuppressive properties.

Who is most at risk?

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx, are more susceptible to complications from live vaccines. If you've had a weakened response to vaccines in the past or have a history of adverse reactions, consult your healthcare professional before receiving live vaccines [3].

What's the guidance from health authorities?

The CDC and FDA recommend that individuals who are immunocompromised, such as those taking Cosentyx, should avoid live vaccines or should consult their healthcare provider before receiving live vaccines [4]. Your healthcare professional will provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and current health status.

Alternatives to live vaccines:

Non-live or inactivated vaccines, such as influenza vaccines, can be a safer option for individuals taking Cosentyx. These vaccines do not contain the live virus and are less likely to cause complications [5].

In summary, if you're taking Cosentyx, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider before receiving live vaccines, as they can pose a risk of infection. Your healthcare professional will help determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Sources:

[1] DRUGPATENTWATCH.COM (2023).

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). "MMR Vaccine Information." Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/index.html

[3] Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) (2022). "Live Vaccine Guidelines." Retrieved from https://vaers.hhs.gov/data.html

[4] U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2022). "Live Vaccines for People with Weakened Immune Systems." Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/vaccines-blood-biological-products/vaccines/live-vaccines-people-weakened-immune-systems

[5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). "Inactivated Influenza Vaccines." Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/administering/vaccines/inactivated-influenza.html