Frequently Asked Questions About Psychiatric Medication Administration and COVID-19 Vaccines

Q: Should psychiatric medications be stopped before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

A: For patients with unstable psychiatric symptoms, patients should not stop their medications because most psychiatric medications are safe for vaccination. Additionally, preparing the body and mind before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine is very important. Patients should continue taking their medications to maintain stable symptoms (especially during the 2 weeks before vaccination) and should get enough rest and sleep.

For patients with stable psychiatric symptoms if they wish to stop medication, they should consult their treating physician because some psychiatric medications may cause side effects or withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

Q: Which psychiatric medications might psychiatrists recommend stopping before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

A: Medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), such as methylphenidate, can be stopped on the day of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine to reduce the risk of the medication interfering with blood vessel constriction.

Summary All patients taking psychiatric medications should maintain good physical health, get enough sleep, engage in relaxing activities, and take their medications to keep psychiatric symptoms stable both before and after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

If you have any further questions regarding psychiatric medications and the vaccine, please consult your treating physician for personalized advice.

Reference: Recommendations on psychiatric medication management and COVID-19 vaccination by the Academic Subcommittee of the Royal College of Psychiatrists of Thailand as of May 24, 2021.