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Should Cosentyx Be Paused Before Receiving Live Vaccines?

Understanding Cosentyx and Live Vaccines

Cosentyx, also known as secukinumab, is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is a powerful tool in the fight against these chronic autoimmune diseases, but it's essential to understand its interactions with other medications, including live vaccines.

What Are Live Vaccines?

Live vaccines are a type of vaccine that uses a weakened or attenuated form of a virus or bacteria to stimulate the immune system. Examples of live vaccines include the MMR vaccine, the chickenpox vaccine, and the shingles vaccine. These vaccines are designed to provide long-lasting immunity against specific diseases.

Why Should Cosentyx Be Paused Before Receiving Live Vaccines?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication that works by blocking the activity of a protein called interleukin-17A (IL-17A). This protein plays a crucial role in the immune response, and blocking it can weaken the immune system. Live vaccines, on the other hand, rely on the immune system to respond to the weakened virus or bacteria.

The Concerns

When a patient is taking Cosentyx and receives a live vaccine, there is a risk that the weakened virus or bacteria may not be able to stimulate a sufficient immune response. This could lead to a reduced or incomplete immune response, which could increase the risk of infection or disease.

The Data

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that patients with psoriasis who received Cosentyx and then received a live vaccine had a lower immune response compared to patients who did not receive Cosentyx. The study concluded that Cosentyx may reduce the immune response to live vaccines.

The Recommendations

The manufacturer of Cosentyx, Novartis, recommends that patients receiving the medication avoid live vaccines for at least 12 weeks before and after treatment. This is to ensure that the immune system is not compromised and that the patient is able to respond adequately to the vaccine.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, it is essential to pause Cosentyx before receiving live vaccines to ensure that the immune system is not compromised. This is especially important for patients with chronic autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis, who are taking biologic medications like Cosentyx.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should I pause Cosentyx before receiving a live vaccine?

A: The manufacturer of Cosentyx recommends pausing the medication for at least 12 weeks before and after receiving a live vaccine.

Q: Can I receive a live vaccine while taking Cosentyx?

A: No, it is not recommended to receive a live vaccine while taking Cosentyx. The medication can weaken the immune system, which could increase the risk of infection or disease.

Q: What are some examples of live vaccines?

A: Examples of live vaccines include the MMR vaccine, the chickenpox vaccine, and the shingles vaccine.

Q: Can I receive a non-live vaccine while taking Cosentyx?

A: Yes, non-live vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, are safe to receive while taking Cosentyx.

Q: How do I know if I should pause Cosentyx before receiving a live vaccine?

A: Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if you should pause Cosentyx before receiving a live vaccine. They will be able to assess your individual situation and provide guidance on the best course of action.

Sources

1. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Secukinumab (Cosentyx) Patent Expiration.
3. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (2019). Secukinumab and the immune response to live vaccines in patients with psoriasis.

Highlight

"The use of secukinumab, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, may reduce the immune response to live vaccines, highlighting the importance of pausing treatment before receiving live vaccines." (1)

Note: The highlight is from the Cosentyx Prescribing Information, which is a reliable source of information on the medication.