What is Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine), and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Zoster vaccine contains live, attenuated (weakened)
varicella-zoster virus (VZV). Varicella-zoster causes chickenpox and then
becomes dormant in nerves. VZV reactivates and causes herpes zoster (shingles or
zoster) later in life (usually 60 years of age or older) when immunity against
VZV declines. Zoster vaccine stimulates the immune system to develop immunity
against VZV. The FDA approved zoster vaccine in May 2006.
What brand names are available for Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine)?
Zostavax
Is Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine) available as a generic drug?
No
Do I need a prescription for Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine)?
Yes
What are the side effects of Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine)?
The most common adverse effects are:
Some individuals
may experience shingles or chickenpox-like rashes within 42 days after receiving
zoster vaccine. Transmission of VZV virus from vaccinated individuals to other
individuals occurs rarely.
What is the dosage for Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine)?
Zoster vaccine is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) in the
upper arm. The recommended dose is 0.65 ml.
Which drugs or supplements interact with Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine)?
In clinical studies, concomitant use of zoster vaccine and
Pneumovax reduced the activity of zoster vaccine.
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Acanthosis Nigricans
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Is Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine) safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Zoster vaccine is not used for preventing shingles in women of
child bearing age and should not be administered to
pregnant women.
Zoster vaccine is not used for preventing shingles in
nursing mothers.
What else should I know about Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine)?
What preparations of Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine) are available?
Powder for Injection: 0.65 ml
How should I keep Zoster Vaccine Live (Shingles Vaccine) stored?
Powder should be stored frozen at 15 C (5 F) or colder until ready
to use. Diluent should be stored at room temperature (20 C – 25 C [68 F – 77 F]) or
refrigerated at (2 C – 8 C [36 F – 46 F]).