Zoster Vaccine, Recombinant injection
The zoster recombinant vaccine reduces your risk of getting shingles. This is a viral infection that causes an outbreak of a painful rash or blisters on the skin. A healthcare provider will give you this injection into a muscle.
What is this medication?
ZOSTER VACCINE (ZOS ter vak SEEN) is a vaccine used to reduce the risk of getting shingles. This vaccine is not used to treat shingles or nerve pain from shingles.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): SHINGRIX
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
cancer
immune system problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to Zoster vaccine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
This vaccine is injected into a muscle. It is given by a health care provider.
A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. This sheet may change often.
Talk to your health care provider about the use of this vaccine in children. This vaccine is not approved for use in children.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
Keep appointments for follow-up (booster) doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your health care provider if you are unable to keep an appointment.
What may interact with this medication?
medicines that suppress your immune system
medicines to treat cancer
steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your health care provider regularly.
This vaccine, like all vaccines, may not fully protect everyone.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions (skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)
trouble breathing
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
chills
headache
fever
nausea
pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected
tiredness
vomiting
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
This vaccine is only given by a health care provider. It will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.