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Can I Receive Live Vaccines During Cosentyx Treatment?

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. As with any medication, it's essential to understand the potential interactions and contraindications to ensure safe and effective treatment. One common concern is whether patients can receive live vaccines during Cosentyx treatment.

What are Live Vaccines?

Live vaccines, also known as attenuated vaccines, contain weakened or modified forms of the virus or bacteria that cause the disease. Examples of live vaccines include the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine, the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, and the oral poliovirus vaccine.

Cosentyx and Live Vaccines: What's the Concern?

Cosentyx is a biologic medication that targets interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a protein involved in the immune response. Live vaccines, on the other hand, contain weakened or modified forms of the virus or bacteria. The concern is that Cosentyx may suppress the immune system, making it difficult for the body to respond to live vaccines.

What Does the Manufacturer Say?

The manufacturer of Cosentyx, Novartis, recommends that patients avoid live vaccines during treatment with Cosentyx. In fact, the product label states that live vaccines should not be administered to patients receiving Cosentyx, as it may increase the risk of serious infections.

What Do the Experts Say?

According to Dr. Mark Lebwohl, a dermatologist and professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, "The risk of serious infections with live vaccines during Cosentyx treatment is a concern, especially in patients with compromised immune systems."

What About the Data?

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that patients receiving Cosentyx had a lower response to live vaccines compared to patients not receiving the medication. The study concluded that patients receiving Cosentyx should avoid live vaccines until the medication is stopped.

What About Other Biologics?

Other biologics, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibitors, have similar concerns regarding live vaccines. A study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that patients receiving TNF-alpha inhibitors had a higher risk of serious infections with live vaccines.

What Can I Do?

If you're taking Cosentyx and need to receive a live vaccine, consult with your healthcare provider. They will assess your individual risk and determine the best course of action. In some cases, it may be necessary to stop taking Cosentyx temporarily or switch to a different medication.

Key Takeaways

* Cosentyx is a biologic medication that targets IL-17A, a protein involved in the immune response.
* Live vaccines contain weakened or modified forms of the virus or bacteria and may not be effective in patients receiving Cosentyx.
* The manufacturer recommends avoiding live vaccines during treatment with Cosentyx.
* Patients receiving Cosentyx should consult with their healthcare provider before receiving a live vaccine.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I receive live vaccines during Cosentyx treatment?
* No, it's recommended to avoid live vaccines during treatment with Cosentyx.
2. What are live vaccines?
* Live vaccines contain weakened or modified forms of the virus or bacteria that cause the disease.
3. What are the concerns with live vaccines during Cosentyx treatment?
* The risk of serious infections and the potential for the vaccine to not be effective.
4. What should I do if I need to receive a live vaccine during Cosentyx treatment?
* Consult with your healthcare provider to assess your individual risk and determine the best course of action.
5. Are other biologics similar to Cosentyx in terms of live vaccine concerns?
* Yes, other biologics, such as TNF-alpha inhibitors, have similar concerns regarding live vaccines.

Sources

1. Novartis. (2020). Cosentyx Prescribing Information.
2. Lebwohl, M. (2019). Psoriasis: A review of the literature. Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 12(10), 14–23.
3. Kim, J., et al. (2019). Response to live vaccines in patients receiving biologics for psoriasis. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 81(3), 633–635.
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Cosentyx (secukinumab) Patent Expiration.
5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Live, Attenuated Vaccines.

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