skip to main content

DMARDs and live vaccines — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardMusculoskeletal TherapeuticsDMARDs and live vaccinesGPhC CRA

A 39-year-old woman taking methotrexate 20 mg weekly for psoriasis asks about a live attenuated travel vaccine for a last-minute trip. Her last FBC was normal and she takes folic acid weekly. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: D — Refer to a travel clinic or specialist prescriber because live vaccines may be unsuitable during methotrexate therapy

Methotrexate is immunosuppressive and live vaccines may be contraindicated or require specialist timing decisions. A normal FBC does not prove live vaccine safety. Travel risk and immunisation options need specialist assessment. Altering methotrexate or folic acid without prescriber input would be unsafe.

Reference: BNF; Green Book