Does Varicella Vaccine Interact with Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative?
CDI records a moderate classification for Varicella Vaccine and Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative. The stored summary is: Live varicella vaccine may temporarily depress PPD reactivity. Tuberculin test should be given before vaccine, simultaneously at separate site, or postponed 4-6 weeks. The mechanism involves live virus vaccine interference. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This record was extracted from drug labeling through openFDA. NIH/NLM RxNorm is used for drug identities. The summary and severity classification are CDI's processed information, not a verbatim source quotation. Product, route, and patient circumstances matter.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative Class
- Skin Test Antigen
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
Recorded Mechanism
Live virus vaccine interference
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Varicella Vaccine and your doctor is considering prescribing Tuberculin Purified Protein Derivative (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider