Drug interactions
Azathioprine + Meningococcal group b vaccine
Severity: Minor
Azathioprine and Meningococcal group b vaccine: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Azathioprine may reduce the antibody response to the non-live meningococcal B vaccine, leading to weaker protection. The vaccine is safe to give.
What this interaction means in plain words
Azathioprine and Meningococcal group b vaccine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Immunosuppression impairs antibody production after vaccination.
What to do
Vaccinate according to guidelines, preferably before immunosuppression when feasible. Do not withhold the vaccine.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Azathioprine
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Azathioprine Contraindicated
- Azathioprine + Bcg vaccine live Contraindicated
- Azathioprine + Febuxostat Contraindicated
- Azathioprine + Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal Contraindicated
- Azathioprine + Measles mumps and rubella vaccine Contraindicated
- Azathioprine + Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Azathioprine with Meningococcal group b vaccine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Azathioprine and Meningococcal group b vaccine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Azathioprine may reduce the antibody response to the non-live meningococcal B vaccine, leading to weaker protection. The vaccine is safe to give.
How serious is the interaction between Azathioprine and Meningococcal group b vaccine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Vaccinate according to guidelines, preferably before immunosuppression when feasible. Do not withhold the vaccine.
What other medicines interact with Azathioprine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Azathioprine with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Febuxostat. The full list is on the Azathioprine page.
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