The do’s and don’ts of medicating for vaccination!
It is a privilege to be able to stay home from work or have the ability to stay home with kids after getting vaccinated. We know that the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines have a pretty strong reactogenic profile and experiencing acute symptoms (fever, headache, fatigue, chills, pain at injection site, etc.) are very common and even expected!
There has been mixed advice on whether or not taking medication for vaccination will blunt the immune response. But knowing you may feel really sick for a few hours can be anxiety-inducing and you may not have the option to be dysfunctional.
I want to make it clear that treating vaccine symptoms is NOT discouraged and, while the mechanism of antipyretic analgesics – such as acetominophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) – are still relatively unclear, enough clinical studies have shown minimal to no effect on built immunity.
Importantly, taking medication prophylactically (before) vaccination IS discouraged. There are some clinical studies that do indicate some reduction of immunity if taken this way.
Finally, most studies indicate that any inhibitory effects are stronger with novel antigens (primary doses) as opposed to repeat antigens (boosters).
So in summary:
▪️Do not take Tylenol or Advil before getting vaccinated or immediately after.
▪️Freely take Tylenol or Advil to treat symptoms of vaccination if you are struggling or need to remain more functional.