Drug interactions
Sarilumab + Varicella virus vaccine live
Severity: Major
Sarilumab 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
Sarilumab suppresses immune function, so the live attenuated varicella virus may replicate excessively and cause disseminated vaccine-strain disease. Vaccine effectiveness may also be reduced.
What this interaction means in plain words
Sarilumab 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
Immunosuppression from IL-6 receptor blockade impairs control of replicating live attenuated virus.
What to do
Avoid live varicella vaccination during sarilumab therapy. Vaccinate before starting treatment, following current guidance on the interval, and check immunity beforehand.
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 Sarilumab
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Sarilumab with Varicella virus vaccine live?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Sarilumab 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. Sarilumab suppresses immune function, so the live attenuated varicella virus may replicate excessively and cause disseminated vaccine-strain disease. Vaccine effectiveness may also be reduced.
How serious is the interaction between Sarilumab 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 live varicella vaccination during sarilumab therapy. Vaccinate before starting treatment, following current guidance on the interval, and check immunity beforehand.
What other medicines interact with Sarilumab?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Sarilumab with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Dengue vaccine. The full list is on the Sarilumab page.
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