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Should We Defer Live Vaccines Administration While on Cosentyx?

Understanding Cosentyx and Live Vaccines

Cosentyx is a biologic medication used to treat various autoimmune disorders, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It belongs to a class of medications called interleukin-17 (IL-17) inhibitors, which work by blocking the production of IL-17, a protein that plays a key role in the development of autoimmune diseases.

Live vaccines, on the other hand, are vaccines that contain a weakened or attenuated form of a pathogen, such as a virus or bacteria. These vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and immune cells that can recognize and fight the pathogen.

The Concern: Immunosuppression and Live Vaccines

Cosentyx is an immunosuppressive medication, which means it can weaken the immune system. This raises concerns about the administration of live vaccines while on Cosentyx. Live vaccines require a certain level of immune function to be effective, and immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx may reduce the effectiveness of these vaccines.

The Risk of Vaccine Failure

If a person is taking Cosentyx and receives a live vaccine, there is a risk that the vaccine may not be effective in preventing infection. This is because the immunosuppressive effects of Cosentyx may reduce the immune response to the vaccine, making it less likely to provide protection against the disease.

The Risk of Vaccine-Associated Infections

Another concern is the risk of vaccine-associated infections. Live vaccines can cause infections in people with weakened immune systems, including those taking immunosuppressive medications like Cosentyx. These infections can range from mild to severe and may require hospitalization.

The Recommendation: Defer Live Vaccines Administration

Based on the available data, it is recommended to defer live vaccines administration while on Cosentyx. The manufacturer of Cosentyx, Novartis, recommends that patients receiving the medication avoid live vaccines for at least 2 months before and 2 months after treatment.

The Exception: Inactivated Vaccines

Inactivated vaccines, on the other hand, are not live vaccines and do not pose the same risks. Inactivated vaccines contain killed or inactivated pathogens and are designed to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies without the risk of infection. Inactivated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, can be administered while on Cosentyx.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, while Cosentyx is an effective medication for treating autoimmune disorders, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with live vaccines administration. Defering live vaccines administration while on Cosentyx is recommended to minimize the risk of vaccine failure and vaccine-associated infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I still get vaccinated while on Cosentyx?
A: Yes, but only with inactivated vaccines. Live vaccines should be deferred while on Cosentyx.

Q: How long should I wait before getting vaccinated after stopping Cosentyx?
A: It is recommended to wait at least 2 months after stopping Cosentyx before getting vaccinated.

Q: Can I get vaccinated while taking other immunosuppressive medications?
A: It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated while taking other immunosuppressive medications.

Q: Are there any specific vaccines that are contraindicated while on Cosentyx?
A: Yes, live vaccines such as the MMR vaccine, chickenpox vaccine, and oral poliovirus vaccine should be avoided while on Cosentyx.

Q: Can I get vaccinated while on other medications that suppress the immune system?
A: It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before getting vaccinated while taking other medications that suppress the immune system.

Cited Sources:

1. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Vaccines and Immunizations.
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx Patent Expiration.
4. American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Psoriasis Treatment: Cosentyx.
5. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2020). Cosentyx: What You Need to Know.