Can You Get Vaccinated While on Cosentyx?
Yes, you can get most vaccines while taking Cosentyx (secukinumab), but live vaccines are not recommended due to increased infection risk from its immune-suppressing effects.[1] Cosentyx, an IL-17 inhibitor for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, does not broadly impair vaccine responses like some other biologics.
Which Vaccines Are Safe?
Inactivated, recombinant, and subunit vaccines—such as COVID-19 (mRNA or protein-based), flu, shingles (Shingrix), pneumococcal, and Tdap—are generally safe and effective. Studies show Cosentyx patients maintain antibody responses to these, including after COVID-19 boosters.[1][2] Your doctor may test antibody levels post-vaccination if concerned.
What About Live Vaccines?
Avoid live vaccines like MMR, oral polio, yellow fever, or nasal flu spray. Cosentyx suppresses IL-17, which could lead to uncontrolled replication of live viruses. Wait at least 4-6 weeks after your last Cosentyx dose before receiving one, and ideally restart Cosentyx 2-4 weeks after.[1]
Timing and COVID-19 Specifics
No required gap for COVID-19 vaccines; many patients receive them concurrently without issues. Real-world data from over 1,000 Cosentyx users confirms robust immune responses to mRNA vaccines, comparable to non-biologic users.[2] Consult your rheumatologist or dermatologist to align with dosing (every 4 weeks after loading).
Doctor Recommendations and Risks
Always discuss with your prescribing physician—they consider your disease activity, infection history, and vaccine type. Rare risks include mild injection-site reactions or transient flares, but no evidence of worsened autoimmune symptoms from vaccination.[1] If immunocompromised further (e.g., with steroids), extra caution applies.
[1] Cosentyx Prescribing Information (Novartis)
[2] Clinical study on vaccine immunogenicity in IL-17 inhibitors (PubMed)