Flu jab and methotrexate : The only day I could get an... - NRAS

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Flu jab and methotrexate

Uga35570 profile image
5 Replies

The only day I could get an appointment for flu is Tuesday 26th. I have 25mgs methotrexate weekly by injection each Tuesday anyone know if this is a problem to have both on the same day.

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Uga35570
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5 Replies
Neonkittie17 profile image
Neonkittie17

There has been research that Mtx can for some people blunt the efficacy of the flu and pneumonia vax. You may need to leave a gap between your Mtx and having had the flu vaccine. I’d ask your rheumy their advice.

Gottaloveastaffy profile image
Gottaloveastaffy

Hey. I’m due a flu jab and my rheumy says prob best not to have methotrexate the same day xx but you should go on the advice of your own rheumy xx

nomoreheels profile image
nomoreheels

This isn’t about flu jab & MTX on the same day but there have been multi-centre, randomized, parallel-group trials (on different years) which show withholding MTX for 2 weeks after having the flu jab improves it's efficacy. Around 75% of those who did had a better response as opposed to an average of 55% who continued their MTX as normal. The response didn't differ between patients who received the flu jab within 3 days of the last MTX dose & those who received it between 4-7 days of the last MTX dose. These findings were considered to have less substantial impact on disease activity (withholding MTX for 2 weeks) as opposed to the previous 4 week withdrawal trials. It does conclude that this evidence isn't supported in current guidelines, so it's down to our Rheumy's thoughts & preferences for their patients on an individual basis.

Just thought it was interesting.

Lyndylou34 profile image
Lyndylou34

Hi, my Covid and flu jabs were booked for the same day as my Methotrexate day. I was told to miss that week.

bienassis profile image
bienassis

I was told that some doctors advise a week's separation and others say it makes no difference if the two are on the same day. So nothing new there!

I decided to err on the cautious side, but that was my choice. Rheumy nurse said most will do the same. Their choice.

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