The COVID-19 vaccine is distributed throughout the country, and like many other vaccines, you may experience side effects such as fatigue, headaches, chills, joint pain and fever as your body has an immune response. If you are concerned about dealing with these side effects, you may be wondering if it is safe to take a painkiller with the COVID-19 vaccine, and if there is a risk that you will become the natural defender of your body will dampen. We asked experts.
Can I take a painkiller after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?
Alaina Brinley, MD, PhD, a California physician specializing in infectious diseases and global health, told POPSUGAR that it is generally considered safe to take antipyretics and painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, after ‘ a vaccine has been received.
“Some studies looking at the formation of antibodies after vaccination and concomitant antipyretic use have shown a possible blunted antibody response of unknown clinical significance,” said Dr. Brinley explains. “In plain English, it basically means that some studies have found that antibody production is reduced, but it was not clear whether this reduction even mattered to actual immunity or the immune system against a particular bacterium or virus.” Dr Brinley added that the reduced antibody effect does not appear to occur after increased doses of vaccinations; so it’s good to take an over-the-counter painkiller after your second Pfizer or Moderna survey, when side effects are more common.
Amit Kumar, PhD, a researcher and scientist and CEO of Anixa Biosciences, agrees. “The use of an over-the-counter painkiller after vaccination should not be a problem,” said Dr. Kumar told POPSUGAR. “You can take it the same day as the vaccination if needed.”
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Do not get other vaccines at about the same time as you get the COVID-19 vaccine, experts say
Is it okay to take a painkiller before I have side effects?
Both doctors said you do not take a painkiller as a preventative measure before getting the vaccine. Instead, dr. Brinley only takes medication if you start to experience symptoms – and if your symptoms are mild, do not try to avoid them at all.
“Ideally, if you can get rid of the pain or fever without the drug, it is best whether you have a vaccine or not,” said Dr. Kumar said. “Of course take the drug if the fever or pain is too great.”
Dr Brinley, who took ibuprofen and paracetamol after receiving her second dose of vaccine, stressed that the most important thing is to be vaccinated. ‘It is much “better to get a vaccine and take a painkiller than not to get the vaccine at all,” she said. If you feel that your symptoms are interfering with your ability to function normally, I will continue to take something. [There’s] no sense in telling you now – I don’t wanna ruin the suprise. ‘
POPSUGAR seeks to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information on the coronavirus, but details and recommendations regarding this pandemic may have changed since its publication. For the latest information on COVID-19, consult the sources of the WHO, CDC and local public health departments.