Can Zostavax Be Taken While Undergoing Steroid Therapy?

Posted on Tue, 13 Dec 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 13 Dec 2016 Answered on

Tue, 10 Jan 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : i received a Shingles Vaccine in August '2012 @ a NYC VA Hospital. On Dec. 7, 2012 ( approx. 112 days later) I had an episode of Bell's Palsy ( And NO, It was Not Lyme disease. As I was tested @ the ER) . Since then Dr. XXXXXXX Simberkoff; co- developer w/ MERK Had a "laudatory" article, in the VA's own Magazine ( 'The Vanguard" - Winter 2014) titled, " Shingles Vaccine Merits Further Study" (That's high praise ???) I have PTSD. Yet two Other VA hospital studies, found problems w/ Patients w/ Depression. I'm 67 and have been receiving Steroid Therapy ( testosterone). What's about the "new" Warnings, on Steroid use w/ ZOVTAVAX ?

Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for your question.

Your question is about dangers of steroid use with Zostavax. Zostavax should not be given to someone undergoing immunosuppressant-dose corticosteroid therapy. Testosterone does not count as an immunosuppressant. It is safe to take in your case.

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