Drug interactions
Diflunisal + Varicella virus vaccine live
Severity: Major
Diflunisal and Varicella virus vaccine live: major 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
Salicylates given after live varicella vaccination are linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Diflunisal is a salicylate derivative, so the same precaution is generally applied.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diflunisal and Varicella virus vaccine live 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.
Why it happens
Salicylate exposure in the setting of varicella virus infection is associated with Reye's syndrome; the mechanism is not clearly established.
What to do
Avoid diflunisal for 6 weeks after vaccination and use paracetamol (acetaminophen) for pain or fever.
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?
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Other interactions of Diflunisal
- Diflunisal + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Diflunisal + Ketorolac intranasal Contraindicated
- Acemetacin + Diflunisal Major
- Acetazolamide + Diflunisal Major
- Alteplase + Diflunisal Major
- Amiloride + Diflunisal Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diflunisal with Varicella virus vaccine live?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Diflunisal and Varicella virus vaccine live 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. Salicylates given after live varicella vaccination are linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Diflunisal is a salicylate derivative, so the same precaution is generally applied.
How serious is the interaction between Diflunisal and Varicella virus vaccine live?
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 diflunisal for 6 weeks after vaccination and use paracetamol (acetaminophen) for pain or fever.
What other medicines interact with Diflunisal?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diflunisal with, for example, Ketorolac, Ketorolac intranasal, Acemetacin. The full list is on the Diflunisal page.
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