Can Kids on Dupilumab or Methotrexate Safely Get MMRV Vaccine? A New Study Offers Clues

For parents of children managing allergies or skin conditions with medications like dupilumab or methotrexate, the question of vaccinating with live attenuated vaccines like MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) can be concerning. Current recommendations advise caution, but a recent study offers promising insights.

Study Challenges Existing Guidelines

A retrospective analysis conducted by researchers at a pediatric tertiary care center suggests that live attenuated vaccines, including MMRV, may be safe for children receiving dupilumab or methotrexate. The study, published in Pediatric Dermatology, found no adverse events (AEs) in the children who received the MMRV vaccine while on these medications.

How the Study Was Conducted

The researchers analyzed electronic medical records of 313 pediatric patients who were treated with dupilumab or methotrexate between 2017 and 2023. They specifically looked for patients who received an MMRV vaccine within six weeks before or after starting or stopping treatment with either medication. A detailed chart review was then conducted to record any treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) for up to six months after vaccination.

Key Findings

Although the number of patients who received the MMRV vaccine while on these medications was relatively small (five on dupilumab and four on methotrexate), the study found no observed AEs in any of the nine vaccinated patients.

What This Means for Parents and Doctors

While these findings are encouraging, the authors emphasize the need for larger, prospective studies to confirm these results and develop evidence-based recommendations. Until then, conversations between parents and healthcare providers are crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of vaccination for individual children.

“Larger, prospective studies are needed to establish evidence-based recommendations for safe and effective use of live virus vaccines in children treated with methotrexate, dupilumab, and other medications impacting immune function,” the authors wrote.

Learn More and Discuss with Your Pediatrician

If you have concerns about vaccinating your child on dupilumab or methotrexate, talk to your pediatrician. They can provide personalized guidance based on your child’s specific medical history and needs. For more information about the study, visit the original publication in Pediatric Dermatology.