Drug Interactions With the Varicella Vaccine

Immunosuppressants, salicylates, and anticoagulants are some of the medicines that may cause varicella vaccine drug interactions. Some of these medications may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine; others may lead to potentially serious problems when combined with the vaccine. In order to prevent drug interactions, tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before getting vaccinated.

An Overview of Varicella Vaccine Interactions

The varicella vaccine (Varivax®) can potentially interact with a few medications or other vaccines. Some of the medicines or vaccines that may lead to interactions with the varicella vaccine include:
 
  • Anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®) or heparin
  • Immune globulins or blood products (such as a blood transfusion)
  • Immunosuppressants, such as:

 

 

 

    • Chemotherapy (as well as radiation treatment)
    • Corticosteroids, such as:

 

      • Betamethasone (Celestone®)
      • Cortisone
      • Dexamethasone (Decadron®)
      • Fludrocortisone (Florinef®)
      • Hydrocortisone (Cortef®)
      • Methylprednisolone (Depo-Medrol®, Medrol®)
      • Prednisolone (Pediapred®)
      • Prednisone
      • Triamcinolone (Kenalog®)

 

 

    • Aspirin (Ecotrin®, Bayer®, Anacin®)
    • Choline magnesium trisalicylate (Trilisate®), diflunisal (Dolobid®)
    • Salsalate (Salflex®, Disalcid®, Amigesic®).

 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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