Medication Guidance After BNT Vaccination: Steroids and Oral Care

Q: Medication Guidance After BNT Vaccination: Steroids and Oral Care

Hello： It is generally not recommended to use immunosuppressive medications after receiving a vaccine, so oral or injectable steroids are discouraged. <br>However, topical ointments are absorbed in very low systemic doses, so they can still be used if necessary. <br>Medications f

Medication issues after vaccination?

Hello doctor, I just received the BNT vaccine.
Can I apply eczema steroids (Betamethasone) and mouth ulcer medication (Mondesil) that contains alcohol after getting the vaccine? Thank you.
Also, if I experience severe mouth ulcers after the vaccination, does that indicate an issue with my immune system? Thank you.

Mr. Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/13

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine

Hello: It is generally not recommended to use immunosuppressive medications after receiving a vaccine, so oral or injectable steroids are discouraged.
However, topical ointments are absorbed in very low systemic doses, so they can still be used if necessary.
Medications for mouth ulcers have no impact at all.
Many people experience discomfort for a few days after vaccination, and mouth ulcers are also quite common.
This is usually considered a side effect of the vaccine and is not significantly related to one's immune system, so there is no need to worry!

Reply Date: 2022/02/13

More Info

After receiving the BNT (BioNTech) vaccine, it is generally safe to continue using topical medications such as corticosteroids for eczema (like Betaderm) and oral care products (like Mondes) that may contain alcohol. The information provided by healthcare professionals indicates that these medications can be used before and after vaccination without significant concerns.
Corticosteroids, such as Betaderm, are commonly prescribed for managing eczema and other inflammatory skin conditions. They work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response in the affected area. The use of topical steroids is localized and does not significantly affect the systemic immune response, which is what the vaccine aims to stimulate. Therefore, applying these medications after vaccination should not interfere with the vaccine's efficacy.

Regarding the use of oral care products like Mondes, which may contain alcohol, it is also considered safe to use them post-vaccination. Alcohol in oral care products typically acts as an antiseptic and does not pose a risk to the immune response triggered by the vaccine. However, if you experience any irritation or adverse reactions, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

As for the occurrence of severe mouth ulcers after vaccination, it is essential to understand that while some individuals may experience oral ulcers following vaccination, this does not necessarily indicate a problem with immune function. The immune system can react to vaccines in various ways, and the development of mouth ulcers may be coincidental or related to other factors such as stress, dietary changes, or underlying health conditions.
Recent studies have reported cases of oral ulcers following COVID-19 vaccinations, but the exact mechanism is not fully understood. It is hypothesized that the immune response triggered by the vaccine may lead to changes in the oral mucosa, resulting in ulcers. However, these occurrences are generally not a contraindication for receiving subsequent vaccine doses. It is crucial to monitor the situation and consult with a healthcare professional if the ulcers persist or worsen.

If you are concerned about your immune system's response or the severity of your mouth ulcers, it may be beneficial to discuss these issues with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your overall health, consider any underlying conditions, and provide personalized advice on managing your symptoms and continuing your vaccination schedule.

In summary, using topical corticosteroids and oral care products after receiving the BNT vaccine is generally safe. The development of mouth ulcers does not necessarily indicate an immune deficiency but may be a reaction to the vaccine or other factors. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice and to address any concerns regarding your health and vaccination status.

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