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Drug interactions

Cyclosporine + Measles mumps and rubella vaccine

Severity: Major

Cyclosporine and Measles mumps and rubella vaccine: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph

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

Cyclosporine suppresses T-cell function, so the vaccine response may be inadequate and live vaccine viruses may cause disseminated infection. Live vaccines are generally avoided in patients on it.

What this interaction means in plain words

Cyclosporine and Measles mumps and rubella vaccine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Calcineurin inhibition suppresses T-cell activation, reducing vaccine response and control of live attenuated viruses.

What to do

Avoid live vaccines during cyclosporine and for at least 3 months after stopping unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Vaccinate beforehand where possible.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Cyclosporine with Measles mumps and rubella vaccine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cyclosporine and Measles mumps and rubella vaccine can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Cyclosporine suppresses T-cell function, so the vaccine response may be inadequate and live vaccine viruses may cause disseminated infection. Live vaccines are generally avoided in patients on it.

How serious is the interaction between Cyclosporine and Measles mumps and rubella vaccine?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid live vaccines during cyclosporine and for at least 3 months after stopping unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Vaccinate beforehand where possible.

What other medicines interact with Measles mumps and rubella vaccine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Measles mumps and rubella vaccine with, for example, Adalimumab, Anakinra, Antithymocyte globulin equine. The full list is on the Measles mumps and rubella vaccine page.

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