COVID Booster, Prednisone and PMR

Hello. I have been wondering about this myself. I just started another round of Prednisone, and have also been prescribed Leflunomide but haven't started taking it yet. Was just going to consult with my GP to see if I should get a booster shot.

I have been on prednisone or medrol for 12 years and I am going to sign up this month at our retirement living pharmacy for a booster. I had Pfizer in mid February and early March. I have been researching this and feel I am at risk. Here is an article of interest regarding steroid use and immunity.
https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-notes/nearly-3-of-americans-take-immune-weakening-drugs-may-limit-covid-vaccine-response

My rheumotologist advised it. I probably will, but very grudgingly.

On Saturday I sent a message to my rheumatologist through our medical center portal. I think I am going to call the vaccine scheduler and get on the list anyway. You have to be careful what medications you take ahead of time so I need to know that. I read you are not supposed to take pain medicine like Alleve or Advil in advance of the shot.

I have taken Prednisone for three years. I was at 10 mg when I received the first two Pfizer shots, but the dosage had been at 20 all winter. I tapered it as I got ready for the shots. In July, my Dr ordered an antibodies test. It showed few. We have been hoping for the third shot since then. I have been lowering Pred since June and am now at 5 mg and will get the third shot this week.

I am not permitted to get a booster through my pharmacy. I have emailed my Rheumatologist to ask if I can get an antibody test. I don't know how common these are but I think I need to know given my county is RED on the Delta variant activity scale.

Yes. Possible need to be off steroids a week before and week after booster according to my immunologist. I also have no spleen and low Igm For years. Also he if pancreatic cancer and chemo. And a. Monoclonal gammooathy MGUS.

Walgreens and cvs are giving the third shots. You just fill out a form and sign it.

Thank you!😊

I signed up through CVS and get my third vaccine on Wednesday. However, I thought the vaccine was free but I still had to give them all my insurance information.