Can You Get Vaccines While on Remicade? What You Need to Know
Remicade and Vaccines
Remicade is a medication that is an anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Patients on Remicade have a weakened immune system and are more susceptible to infections.
Vaccines can help protect against infections but you need to know how Remicade affects the immune response to vaccination.
Immune Response to Vaccination
The immune system is key to responding to vaccines and providing immunity against infections.
Patients on Remicade have a reduced immune response to vaccines so they won’t be as effective.
Understanding the immune response to vaccination is important for developing a vaccine plan. Patients with chronic liver disease are also at higher risk and should be monitored closely when getting vaccines.
Types of Vaccines
Inactivated Vaccines
Inactivated vaccines (flu, etc) contain killed or inactivated viruses or bacteria.
These are safe for Remicade patients and can protect against infections.
Examples of inactivated vaccines are flu vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine.
Live Vaccines
Live vaccines (MMR, etc) contain live or attenuated viruses or bacteria.
These may not be suitable for Remicade patients as they can cause infections in people with weakened immune systems.
Examples of live vaccines are MMR vaccine, varicella vaccine, live attenuated influenza vaccine.
Flu Vaccine and Remicade
Flu vaccine is important for Remicade patients as they are at higher risk of developing complications from flu.
Flu vaccine is inactivated and safe for Remicade patients.
Remicade patients should get flu vaccine every year.
Other Vaccines and Remicade
Other vaccines (pneumococcal and hepatitis B) may be recommended for Remicade patients.
These can protect against infections and are safe for Remicade patients.
Remicade patients should discuss their vaccine status with their doctor to determine which vaccines are recommended.
Timing of Vaccination Relative to Remicade Infusion Timing of Vaccination is Important when you have IBD and Remicade. Remicade (infliximab) is a powerful medication that controls IBD by suppressing the immune system. However, this immunosuppression can affect how well your body responds to vaccines.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that patients with IBD get inactivated vaccines (flu vaccine etc.) at least 2 weeks before starting Remicade. This allows your immune system to develop a robust response to the vaccine before Remicade starts to suppress it.
If you are already on Remicade, getting inactivated vaccines (flu shot etc.) is generally recommended at least 4-6 weeks after your last infusion. This window allows your immune system to recover somewhat from the immunosuppressive effects of Remicade and increase the chances of an effective immune response.
Live vaccines (varicella vaccine etc.) are not recommended for patients on Remicade due to the risk of vaccine related complications. However, there are exceptions. For example, live vaccines may be considered for patients in remission or with mild disease who are not on immunosuppressive therapy.
Remember that timing of vaccination can vary based on individual factors such as severity of your IBD, other health conditions and your vaccine schedule. So always consult your doctor to determine the best vaccine plan for you.
In summary, timing of vaccination with Remicade infusions is key to getting an adequate immune response. Inactivated vaccines should be given at least 2 weeks before starting Remicade or 4-6 weeks after the last infusion. Live vaccines are generally contraindicated but may be considered in special cases. Always consult with your doctor to tailor the best approach for you.
Special Considerations for Remicade patients with IBD
Remicade patients may need to take extra precautions when getting vaccines (avoid live vaccines).
Remicade patients should be aware of potential side effects (infections) after getting vaccines.
Remicade patients should discuss their individual needs and concerns with their doctor.
Developing a Vaccine Plan
Remicade patients should work with their doctor to develop a vaccine plan that suits their individual needs and health status.* What vaccines to get, when and how to handle side effects.
Remicade patients should also know about the resources available to them (Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation etc.)