Dupixent and Xolair and COVID-19 Vaccines

Thomas Higgins • January 3, 2022

Dupilumab (Dupixent) and omalizumab (Xolair) are biologics/monoclonal antibodies used to treat nasal polyps and asthma. So, can you take the COVID-19 vaccine while on these medications?
 
THE TWO FDA-APPROVED VACCINES ARE NOT LIVE VACCINES
 
The two COVID-19 vaccinations currently available (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna) are both non-live, mRNA vaccines. The package insert for dupilumab states that live vaccines should be avoided because it has not been studied with live vaccines. Thus, from this standpoint, both of the medicines can be given.
 
ANTIBODY RESPONSES PRODUCED WITH OTHER VACCINES IN PATIENTS ON BIOLOGICS
 
Dupilumab has been studied with other non-live vaccines and the vaccines worked. In a study of atopic dermatitis adults on dupilumab, both the meningococcal polysaccharide and tetanus vaccines showed similar antibody responses in both placebo-treated and dupilumab-treated subjects.

 

NEITHER MEDICINE HAS IMMUNOSUPPRESSIVE EFFECTS

 
Dupilumab and omalizumab "modulate" or change the behavior of the immune system, but neither medicine has been shown to reduce the immune system in studies.

 
JOINT STATEMENT FROM EXPERTS 

 
According to a Joint Statement by the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO–HNS) and the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy (AAOA), dupilumab (Dupixent) and omalizumab (Xolair) should not be given on the same day but otherwise can be administered on the normal schedule.
 

CONCLUSION

Experts are currently recommending that patients continue dupilumab (
Dupixent) and omalizumab (Xolair) when getting the COVID-19 vaccine as long as both the biologic and vaccine are not administered on the same day. Neither medication has been found to lower the immune system and the current vaccines are non-live. Always consult your treating physician for individual medical advice. 
 
 

Cheers,
Thomas S. Higgins, MD, MSPH

 
Father. Husband. Sinus Nerd.
 

Source: https://www.entnet.org/content/allergic-reactions-related-covid-19-vaccinations-allergic-patients

Woman with eyes closed, tilting head up toward bright light. Red jacket.
February 11, 2026
Discover how air quality affects your sinuses. Learn actionable tips to reduce indoor allergens, manage humidity, and breathe easier. Find out when to see an ENT specialist for chronic sinus issues.
Person suffering from sinus infection, holding tissue touching their face, likely due to a cold.
January 29, 2026
Learn how long sinus infections typically last and when to seek treatment. Higgins Sinus provides expert sinus care in Louisville, KY, and Southern Indiana.
Nose doctor checking on patient
January 22, 2026
Recover quickly and comfortably from sinus surgery. Get practical tips on rest, saline rinses, pain management, and timelines for FESS, balloon sinuplasty, and septoplasty.
close-up-portrait-of-sick-young-man-with-sinus-infection
January 12, 2026
Suffer from headaches with a stuffy nose? Learn how rhinitis (nasal inflammation) causes head pain, how it differs from sinusitis, and when to seek expert care from an ENT.
man-experiencing-nose-bleed
December 22, 2025
Are nosebleeds happening weekly? Learn what frequent episodes could signal—from dry air to high blood pressure—and when to see a specialist in Louisville or Jeffersonville for evaluation.
beautiful-smiling-ginger-woman-smelling-and-drinking-tea-at-home.jpg
December 9, 2025
Tired of sinus flare-ups? Our ENT expert in Louisville share proven daily routines to maintain clear sinuses, reduce inflammation, and minimize symptoms. Get personalized care tips here.
close-up-photo-of-a-sinus-doctor-examining-nasal-cavity-of-the-patient
November 28, 2025
Suffering from nasal polyps? Dr. Higgins, a board-certified ENT specialist in Louisville & Jeffersonville, offers expert evaluation, treatment, and endoscopic sinus surgery for lasting relief.
A young woman with a runny nose blows her nose into a tissue
November 14, 2025
Constantly dealing with a runny nose? Discover the real reasons behind your nasal drainage—from allergies to colds—and learn effective remedies and when to see a specialist. Get expert care from Dr. Higgins in Louisville, Kentucky; & Southern Indiana.
child-with-rhinitis-get-yellow-snot
October 27, 2025
Concerned about sudden yellow discharge? Get expert insight from Dr. Higgins, a leading sinus specialist in Kentucky and Indiana. Learn the signs of a sinus infection and effective home treatments.
Septal Swell Body treatment
September 30, 2025
Struggling with constant nasal congestion that sprays can't fix? You may have septal swell body hypertrophy. Learn the symptoms of this hidden condition and the minimally invasive procedure that can provide long-term relief in about a week.