Herpes Zoster Virus Vaccine
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What is Herpes Zoster Virus Vaccine?
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• cancer such as leukemia or lymphoma
• fever or infection including tuberculosis
• herpes zoster or shingles
• HIV infection or AIDS
• immune system problems
• an unusual reaction to Herpes Zoster Virus Vaccine, neomycin, gelatin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should this medicine be used?
The vaccine is for injection under the skin on your upper arm. It is given by a health-care professional in a clinic or doctor's office. A single dose is given to adults at least 60 years of age. At this time, 'booster' doses of the vaccine have not been recommended.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.
What drug(s) may interact with Herpes Zoster Virus Vaccine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
• adalimumab
• anakinra
• etanercept
• infliximab
• medicines that suppress your immune system like medicines for cancer
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
• immunoglobulins
• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
• vaccines
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking Herpes Zoster Virus Vaccine?
After the vaccine has been given, the virus from the vaccine may be transmitted to other people. Avoid people who have a weakened immune system, such as people with HIV infection or AIDS, and pregnant women who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine for chickenpox. Ask your health care professional about immunization for other family members.
If you get shingles, see your health care provider as soon as possible after getting the rash.
Tell your doctor if you are or could be pregnant before getting the vaccine. You should not get the vaccine if you are pregnant, and do not become pregnant for 3 months after getting the vaccine. If you become pregnant within 3 months of getting the vaccine, call 1—800—986—8999.
What side effects may I notice from receiving Herpes Zoster Virus Vaccine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• headache
• redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or itching at the injection site
• tiredness or weakness
Where can I keep my medicine?
Each dose of this vaccine will be administered in the clinic or office of a health care professional. You will not be given vaccine doses to store at home.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
