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Drug interactions

Human papillomavirus vaccine nonavalent + Leflunomide

Severity: Moderate

Human papillomavirus vaccine nonavalent and Leflunomide: moderate 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

Immunosuppression from leflunomide may blunt the antibody response to the HPV vaccine. Because it is a non-live vaccine, it is safe to give but protection may be less robust.

What this interaction means in plain words

Human papillomavirus vaccine nonavalent and Leflunomide can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Leflunomide inhibits lymphocyte proliferation, reducing vaccine-induced immune response.

What to do

Give the vaccine series as indicated and do not withhold it; ideally vaccinate before starting leflunomide when feasible.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Should I take them at different times of day?
  • Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
  • Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?

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

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Human papillomavirus vaccine nonavalent with Leflunomide?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Human papillomavirus vaccine nonavalent and Leflunomide can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Immunosuppression from leflunomide may blunt the antibody response to the HPV vaccine. Because it is a non-live vaccine, it is safe to give but protection may be less robust.

How serious is the interaction between Human papillomavirus vaccine nonavalent and Leflunomide?

MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Give the vaccine series as indicated and do not withhold it; ideally vaccinate before starting leflunomide when feasible.

What other medicines interact with Leflunomide?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Leflunomide with, for example, Bcg vaccine live, Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal, Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live. The full list is on the Leflunomide page.

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