Proquad: What You Need to Know About Its Uses, Dosage, Demographics, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Proquad is a combination vaccine used to prevent four diseases: measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). Here’s everything you need to know about Proquad. Uses of Proquad Proquad is used to prevent measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox) in children aged 12 months to 12 years old. It can also be given to adolescents and adults who have not been vaccinated against any of these diseases. Dosage of Proquad Proquad is given as a single injection under the skin (subcutaneously). The recommended dosage is: - Children aged 12 months to 12 years old: one dose (0.5 mL) - Adolescents and adults who have not been vaccinated against any of these diseases: two doses, separated by at least 4 weeks Demographics of Proquad Proquad is recommended for children aged 12 months to 12 years old. However, adolescents and adults who have not been vaccinated against any of these diseases can also receive Proquad. Side Effects of Proquad Like all vaccines, Proquad can cause side effects. The most common side effects include: - Pain, redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site - Fever - Rash Less common side effects include: - Joint pain - Headache - Fatigue - Nausea - Diarrhea - Vomiting In very rare cases, Proquad can cause serious side effects, such as seizures, allergic reactions, and meningitis. Interactions of Proquad Proquad can be given at the same time as other vaccines, but it should not be given to people who have: - A severe allergic reaction to any component of Proquad - A history of seizures or a condition that lowers seizure threshold - A weakened immune system (due to a disease, such as HIV or cancer, or medications, such as steroids or chemotherapy) It is important to tell your doctor if you or your child has any medical conditions or takes any medications before receiving Proquad. Generic Options for Proquad There are no generic versions of Proquad. However, there are separate vaccines that protect against each of the diseases included in Proquad: measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox). These vaccines can be given separately if Proquad is not available or not recommended. Conclusion Proquad is a combination vaccine used to prevent measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox) in children aged 12 months to 12 years old. It can also be given to adolescents and adults who have not been vaccinated against these diseases. While Proquad can cause side effects, they are generally mild and go away on their own. If you or your child needs to receive Proquad, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of the vaccine.