Drug interactions
Meningococcal group b vaccine + Tocilizumab
Severity: Minor
Meningococcal group b vaccine and Tocilizumab: 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
Tocilizumab may reduce the immune response to the meningococcal B vaccine, potentially leaving the patient with less protection. The vaccine is non-live and safe to give.
What this interaction means in plain words
Meningococcal group b vaccine and Tocilizumab 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
IL-6 blockade may blunt antibody responses to vaccine antigens.
What to do
Vaccinate according to schedule, ideally before starting tocilizumab when feasible. Complete the full series.
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 Tocilizumab
- Bcg vaccine live + Tocilizumab Contraindicated
- Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live + Tocilizumab Contraindicated
- Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live + Tocilizumab Contraindicated
- Measles vaccine + Tocilizumab Contraindicated
- Rubella vaccine + Tocilizumab Contraindicated
- Smallpox vaccine live + Tocilizumab Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Meningococcal group b vaccine with Tocilizumab?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Meningococcal group b vaccine and Tocilizumab have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Tocilizumab may reduce the immune response to the meningococcal B vaccine, potentially leaving the patient with less protection. The vaccine is non-live and safe to give.
How serious is the interaction between Meningococcal group b vaccine and Tocilizumab?
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 schedule, ideally before starting tocilizumab when feasible. Complete the full series.
What other medicines interact with Tocilizumab?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Tocilizumab with, for example, Bcg vaccine live, Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live, Measles mumps rubella and varicella vaccine live. The full list is on the Tocilizumab page.
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