Post-Vaccine Medication Concerns: Can I Use Steroids and Alcohol-Based Treatments?

Medication issues after vaccination?

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

Mr. Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/14

Dr. Lin Wufu reply Internal Medicine

Hello, this question may have been asked before.
Local steroids or alcohol are not significantly absorbed into the body, so their use is generally not problematic.
Developing mouth sores after vaccination is considered a related adverse reaction, but it does not necessarily indicate an issue with immune function.
Instead, it can be interpreted as the body's immune system responding to the vaccine, which is unrelated to the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing COVID-19.
You can rest assured.

Reply Date: 2022/07/14

More Info

After receiving the BNT (BioNTech) vaccine, it is generally safe to continue using topical medications, including corticosteroids for eczema (like Betaderm) and oral treatments for mouth sores (like Mondesah, which contains alcohol). The use of these medications does not interfere with the vaccine's efficacy or safety. Corticosteroids, such as Betaderm, are commonly prescribed to manage inflammatory skin conditions, while Mondesah is often used to relieve discomfort from mouth ulcers.

It's important to note that the BNT vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight the SARS-CoV-2 virus. While some individuals may experience mild side effects post-vaccination, such as soreness at the injection site, fatigue, or mild fever, these are typically signs that the immune system is responding appropriately. However, if you are experiencing severe mouth sores after vaccination, it may not necessarily indicate an underlying immune deficiency. Mouth ulcers can occur due to various factors, including stress, dietary deficiencies, or even viral infections unrelated to the vaccine.

If you have a history of recurrent mouth sores or other immune-related issues, it might be worth discussing these concerns with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your overall health and vaccination status.
In terms of the medications you mentioned, corticosteroids can suppress the immune response if used systemically (orally or injected), but topical corticosteroids like Betaderm are generally localized and have minimal systemic effects. Therefore, using them after vaccination should not pose a significant risk. Similarly, alcohol-based treatments like Mondesah are typically safe for use, as they are applied locally and do not interact with the vaccine.

If you have concerns about your immune system or the frequency of your mouth sores, it may be beneficial to undergo further evaluation. Conditions such as vitamin deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, folate) or other underlying health issues can contribute to the development of mouth ulcers.
In summary, using topical corticosteroids and alcohol-based treatments after receiving the BNT vaccine is generally safe. If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for a thorough assessment and tailored advice. They can help determine if further investigation is needed regarding your immune health and the management of your symptoms.

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