SHINGRIX VACCINE  (0.5mL)

Generic Name: zoster vaccine (recombinant)
Brand Name: Shingrix
Drug class: Viral vaccines

WHAT IS THE DOSAGE OF THIS MEDICATION?

After reconstitution with the supplied diluent, Shingrix contains 50 µg of Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) glycoprotein E (gE).

WHAT IS THIS MEDICATION USED FOR?

Shingrix is a vaccine used to prevent shingles (also called herpes zoster) for people over 50 years of age. It does not treat shingles (only prevent). Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person has been infected with chickenpox (usually in childhood), the virus stays in the body and becomes dormant. If active again, the virus causes shingles which is characterized by a painful skin rash with blisters, and can be followed by fever, headache, chills, upset stomach, and long-term nerve pain called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN).

This medication is given as an injection of 0.5 mL into the muscle of the upper arm.  Vaccination consists of 2 doses. After the first injection a second dose is given 2 to 6 months later.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are receiving the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important this medication be given exactly as recommended by your doctor. If you miss an appointment to receive this vaccine, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.

This medication should be protected from light and stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 2°C to 8°C, until it is mixed to be used for injection. Do not freeze this medication. After mixing, the vaccine must be given immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

WHO SHOULD NOT TAKE THIS MEDICATION

Do not use this medication if you:

• are allergic to zoster vaccine or any ingredients of the medication.

POTENTIAL INTERACTION WITH OTHER MEDICATION

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

The following medications could potentially interact with this medication:

• acetaminophen

• azathioprine

• cancer medications (e.g., carboplatin, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, ifosfamide, vincristine)

• corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide, dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, fluticasone, prednisone)

• cyclosporine

• fingolimod

• hydroxyurea

• monoclonal antibodies (e.g., adalimumab, belimumab, daclizumab, golimumab, infliximab, rituximab)

• mycophenolate

• tacrolimus

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF THIS MEDICATION?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed, please contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects include:

• chills

• diarrhea

• fever

• general feeling of being unwell

• headache

• muscle pain

• nausea

• pain, redness, itching and swelling at the injection site

• stomach pain

• tiredness

• vomiting

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