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Is it Safe to Get Vaccinated While on Cosentyx Therapy?

As a patient taking Cosentyx, a biologic medication used to treat psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, you may be wondering if it's safe to get vaccinated while on therapy. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it's essential to understand the risks and benefits of vaccination while taking Cosentyx.

What is Cosentyx?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication that works by blocking the action of a protein called interleukin-17A (IL-17A). IL-17A is a protein that plays a key role in the development of psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. By blocking IL-17A, Cosentyx helps to reduce the inflammation and symptoms associated with these conditions.

Is it Safe to Get Vaccinated While on Cosentyx?

According to the manufacturer's guidelines, it's generally recommended to avoid live vaccines while taking Cosentyx. Live vaccines, such as the MMR vaccine, can increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis and other opportunistic infections. However, inactivated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, are considered safe to receive while taking Cosentyx.

What are the Concerns?

There are several concerns when it comes to getting vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy. One of the main concerns is the risk of infection. Cosentyx is designed to suppress the immune system, which can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections. Additionally, the medication can increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis and other opportunistic infections.

What are the Benefits?

Despite the concerns, there are several benefits to getting vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy. Vaccination can help to prevent serious infections, including COVID-19, which can be particularly severe in patients with compromised immune systems. Additionally, vaccination can help to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death from vaccine-preventable diseases.

What are the Guidelines?

The guidelines for getting vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy vary depending on the specific vaccine and the patient's individual circumstances. In general, it's recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before receiving any vaccine while taking Cosentyx. The healthcare provider will be able to assess the patient's individual risk factors and determine the best course of action.

What are the Recommendations?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that patients taking biologic medications, including Cosentyx, follow the same vaccination schedule as the general population. However, the CDC also recommends that patients taking biologic medications avoid live vaccines and consult with a healthcare provider before receiving any vaccine.

What are the Alternatives?

If you're unable to receive a live vaccine while on Cosentyx therapy, there are several alternatives available. Inactivated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, are considered safe to receive while taking Cosentyx. Additionally, there are several vaccines that are not live, such as the HPV vaccine, which can be used to prevent certain types of cancer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it's generally safe to get vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before receiving any vaccine. The healthcare provider will be able to assess the patient's individual risk factors and determine the best course of action. By following the guidelines and recommendations, patients taking Cosentyx can help to protect themselves from serious infections and stay healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get a live vaccine while on Cosentyx therapy?
A: No, it's generally recommended to avoid live vaccines while taking Cosentyx.

Q: Can I get an inactivated vaccine while on Cosentyx therapy?
A: Yes, inactivated vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, are considered safe to receive while taking Cosentyx.

Q: What are the risks of getting vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy?
A: The risks include the risk of infection, including serious infections such as tuberculosis and other opportunistic infections.

Q: What are the benefits of getting vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy?
A: The benefits include the prevention of serious infections, including COVID-19, and the reduction of the risk of hospitalization and death from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Q: What should I do if I'm unsure about getting vaccinated while on Cosentyx therapy?
A: Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Cosentyx Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-9,341,445>
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Vaccines and Immunizations. Retrieved from <https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/index.html>
3. National Psoriasis Foundation. (2022). Vaccinations and Psoriasis. Retrieved from <https://www.psoriasis.org/living-with-psoriasis/treatments/vaccinations-and-psoriasis>
4. American College of Rheumatology. (2022). Vaccination in Patients with Rheumatic Diseases. Retrieved from <https://www.rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/About-Rheumatic-Diseases/Vaccination-in-Patients-with-Rheumatic-Diseases>
5. European Medicines Agency. (2022). Cosentyx Summary of Product Characteristics. Retrieved from <https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/cosentyx-epar-product-information_en.pdf>