home > drugs a-z list > menactra (polysaccharide diphtheria toxoid conjugate vaccine) drug center > menactra (polysaccharide diphtheria toxoid conjugate vaccine) drug - consumer uses and warnings

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.

MENINGOCOCCAL CONJUGATE VACCINE - INJECTION

(men-in-JOE-coe-call)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Menactra

USES: This medication is used in high-risk patients to help prevent serious, sometimes fatal, infections (meningitis, meningococcemia) caused by a certain bacteria (Neisseria meningitidis). These infections are very serious and may cause severe problems (hearing loss, brain/nerve problems, paralysis, blindness, seizures, loss of limbs) even with proper antibiotic treatment. Therefore, preventing these infections through vaccination is very important.

This vaccine contains parts from the bacteria (Neisseria meningitidis). It works by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the bacteria.

HOW TO USE: Read the Vaccine Information Statement available from your health care provider before receiving the vaccine. If you have any questions, consult your health care provider.

This vaccine is given by injection into the muscle of the upper arm by a health care professional. It is given as a single dose.