Flu Shot Okay with Plaquenil?

[CAT1962]

The only thing I have read is don't take the shot if you are on Methotrexate (spelling?) ..and that amy even be old news...The only yr I got the flu without getting the shot in 15 yrs or so was 2009 and I had H1N1 and seasonal flu so I want to get it. The nurae is giving them next week at the school. It's okay, right? I wasn't on Plaquenil unil March of this year and just want to be sure. Yea...I can call the rheumy but yo?u all are nicer than the staff....;-)............****cell typos*****

[eyeamdry]

I've been on Plaquenil and Methotrexate for 4 1/2 years and get a flu shot every year.  Never knew there was anything wrong with it.  Now, wait a minute---I got the shot at my rheumy's office and she prescribes those meds and I doubt she would be handing out flu shots if it messed with those meds.

I'm just sayin".......maybe some info doesn't ring true and you should ask your rheumy.  Lucy

[tracyj]

I've been having the flu shot for years with no problem.  Now I am on Plaquenil it was still fine!!! 

[Cheryl]

Both my gp and my rheumy recommend that I get the flu shot every year, and I'm on Plaquenil, too.
Cheryl

[engy]

I usually never get the flu shot (my ins. doesn't cover it) but every doctor I have said I better be first in line. I plan on getting it this year & I'm on plaquenil.

Carie

[mshistory]

I'm on Plaquenil and actually got the Flu Mist...I didn't think it would be a problem but I don't know if that's recommended or not...? I think w/the Mist, if I were on an immunosuppressive I would have opted for the shot though.

[Scottietottie]

Another one here who's GP has gone ahead with a flu shot. (Only if i see her at the right time of the year because I avoid any shots if I can!)

I've been on Plaquenil for nearly 6 years now.

Take care - Scottie 

[Nancy60]

My Dr said I SHOULD get the flu shot.  She did recommend getting the SHOT, Not the flu mist because it is a live virus (the flu shot is not live virus).  I am only on Plaquenil. 

[lynnmarie219]

Yup..another one here on plaquenil and my doctors all want me to continue getting the flu shot every fall (have received them for years now). I haven't had any problems over the last ?? years that I've been getting the shot and been on plaquenil.

I have also always been told to not get the mist as it is a live virus...to only get the flu shot which is not a live virus. Thanks for the reminder Nancy....

[Jellyb]

Hi you guys!

The problem I have is that I am allergic to eggs and thimerosol, and as far as I know both of those ingredients are still used in the seasonal flu vaccine. Any thoughts?

[Carebear]

Hi Cat,

I take both Plaquenil and Methotrexate and my Rheumotologist has given me the okay for the flu shot.  Previously was just on Plaquenil, and was given the shot with no problem.

Maybe give your rheumy a call first because each case may be unique.