Zostavax (Zoster Vaccine Live) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 26, 2012

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Zostavax

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ZOSTAVAX®
(Zoster Vaccine Live)

DRUG DESCRIPTION

ZOSTAVAX is a lyophilized preparation of the Oka/Merck strain of live, attenuated varicella-zoster virus (VZV). ZOSTAVAX, when reconstituted as directed, is a sterile suspension for subcutaneous administration. Each 0.65-mL dose contains a minimum of 19,400 PFU (plaque-forming units) of Oka/Merck strain of VZV when reconstituted and stored at room temperature for up to 30 minutes. Each dose contains 31.16 mg of sucrose, 15.58 mg of hydrolyzed porcine gelatin, 3.99 mg of sodium chloride, 0.62 mg of monosodium L-glutamate, 0.57 mg of sodium phosphate dibasic, 0.10 mg of potassium phosphate monobasic, 0.10 mg of potassium chloride; residual components of MRC-5 cells including DNA and protein; and trace quantities of neomycin and bovine calf serum. The product contains no preservatives.

What are the possible side effects of zoster vaccine live (Zostavax)?

You should not receive a second zoster vaccine if you had a life-threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.

Keep track of any and all side effects you have after receiving this vaccine. If you ever need to receive a booster dose, you will need to tell the doctor if the previous shots caused any side effects.

Becoming infected with shingles is much more dangerous to your health than receiving the vaccine to protect against it. Like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects, but the risk of serious side effects...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Zostavax »

What are the precautions when taking zoster vaccine live (Zostavax)?

Before receiving this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any vaccines; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as neomycin, gelatin), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before receiving this vaccination, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: immune system problems (e.g., due to HIV, cancer treatment, organ transplant), untreated active tuberculosis.

Before receiving this vaccination, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current fever/illness, previous reaction to other vaccine.

Caution is advised if you have regular...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 7/25/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.