VARICELLA VIRUS VACCINE (SHINGLES) - INJECTION

VARICELLA VIRUS VACCINE (SHINGLES) - INJECTION

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (VAR-i-SEL-a)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Shingrix

GENERIC NAME(S): varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein E,rec/AS01B adjuvant/PF

Uses

USES: This vaccine is used by adults 50 years and older to prevent zoster (shingles). Zoster is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have been infected with chickenpox (usually in childhood), the virus can live in your body's nerve roots in an inactive form. For reasons that are not fully understood, the virus may become active again. This causes shingles with symptoms of rash, blisters, and pain. This vaccine works by boosting the body's natural defense (immunity) against the zoster virus so that symptoms of shingles do not develop. It should not be used for treating active shingles, nerve pain caused by shingles, or for the prevention of chickenpox. Vaccines may not fully protect everyone who receives them. This vaccine should not be used by children.


How to use VARICELLA VIRUS VACCINE (SHINGLES) - INJECTION

HOW TO USE: Read all vaccine information available from your health care professional before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, ask your health care professional. This vaccine is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional. It is usually given in the upper arm. This vaccine is usually given in a series of 2 doses to provide the best protection. Closely follow the vaccination schedule provided by the health care professional. Keep all scheduled medical appointments. It may be helpful to mark a calendar as a reminder.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Redness, itching, swelling, warmth, bruising, or pain at the injection site may occur. Headache, muscle pain, tiredness, or fever may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your health care professional promptly. Remember that your health care professional has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your health care professional. Contact the doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967. In Canada, you may call the Vaccine Safety Section at Public Health Agency of Canada at 1-866-844-0018.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before you receive this vaccine, tell the health care professional if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your health care professional for more details. Before receiving this vaccine, tell your health care professional your medical history, especially of: current fever/illness, immune system problems (such as due to HIV, cancer treatment, organ transplant), previous reaction to other vaccine. During pregnancy, this vaccine should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your health care professional. It is unknown if this vaccine passes into breast milk. Consult your health care professional before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your health care professional. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this vaccine are: cancer chemotherapy, corticosteroids (such as prednisone, dexamethasone), drugs that lower the immune system (such as cyclosporine, tacrolimus).

Overdose

OVERDOSE: Not applicable.

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Faq for VARICELLA VIRUS VACCINE (SHINGLES) - INJECTION

The varicella virus vaccine, also known as the shingles vaccine, is an injection that helps prevent shingles, a painful and blistering rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

The varicella virus vaccine is recommended for individuals who are 50 years of age or older. It is especially recommended for those who have had chickenpox in the past, as they are at higher risk of developing shingles.

The varicella virus vaccine contains a weakened, live form of the varicella-zoster virus. When injected, it stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that help protect against the virus. These antibodies provide long-term immunity and reduce the risk of developing shingles.

Yes, the varicella virus vaccine is considered safe and effective. Common side effects may include redness, pain, or swelling at the injection site, mild headache, and fatigue. Serious side effects are rare.

Currently, the varicella virus vaccine is given as a two-dose series. The second dose is typically administered two to six months after the first dose to ensure optimal protection against shingles.

No, the varicella virus vaccine cannot cause shingles. However, it may cause a mild form of the viral rash in rare cases. This rash is usually much less severe than actual shingles and is not contagious.

Yes, the varicella virus vaccine can reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). PHN is a common complication of shingles and causes persistent nerve pain after the rash has healed. By preventing shingles, the vaccine decreases the likelihood of developing PHN.

The varicella virus vaccine is typically covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare. However, coverage may vary, so it is advisable to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage details.

If you miss a dose of the varicella virus vaccine, speak to your healthcare provider. They will provide guidance on how to proceed, which may involve rescheduling the missed dose or restarting the vaccination series.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.