The effect of tofacitinib on pneumococcal and influenza vaccine responses in rheumatoid arthritis -

The effect of tofacitinib on pneumococcal and influenza vaccine responses in rheumatoid arthritis
Information type: Other primary research
Source: Annals of Rheumatic Diseases
Specialities: Allergy and immunology | Infection and infectious diseases | Musculo-skeletal disorders | Vaccination
Summary
Patients starting tofacitinib for RA and vaccinated 4 weeks later had diminished responsiveness to the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, but not the influenza vaccine. In those already taking the drug, temporary discontinuation had little impact on vaccine responses.
UKMi comment
The authors suggest that clinicians vaccinate with PPSV-23 prior to starting tofacitinib or methotrexate treatment, if possible. As the results suggest similar proportions of patients respond favourably to seasonal influenza vaccination regardless of methotrexate or tofacitinib exposure, influenza vaccination could be undertaken yearly (as recommended) regardless of such therapy.
Related links: