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Varicella Virus Vaccine Injection
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
VARICELLA VIRUS VACCINE – INJECTION
(vair-ih-SELL-uh VYE-russ vack-SEEN)
COMMON BRAND NAME: Varivax Vaccine
USES: The varicella virus is commonly known as chickenpox. This medication is a vaccine given to persons over 1 year of age to protect against chickenpox.
HOW TO USE: This medication is given by subcutaneous injection into the upper arm by a health care professional. The prepared vaccine should be clear and colorless (or pale yellow), if not then discard. Children receive a single dose. Adults, 12 years and older receive two doses 4 to 8 weeks apart.
SIDE EFFECTS: Most common are burning, stinging, pain or redness at the injection site, mild fever, skin rash. Also reported include cough, irritability, headache, loss of appetite and fatigue. If any of these effects continue beyond a few days or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: high fever, breathing trouble, chills, hives, stiff neck. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses or infections, blood disorders, immune system disorders, allergies (especially to gelatin or neomycin). This medication is not to be given during pregnancy. It is also recommended that women avoid pregnancy for three months after receiving this vaccine. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: aspirin and aspirin-containing medications, steroids, anti-cancer medications, immunosuppressants. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Although the vaccine has been shown to reduce the risk of getting chickenpox, it may not protect all persons. It is also unknown at this time if receiving the vaccine after being exposed to the virus will prevent illness. Discuss the risks and benefits of this vaccine with your doctor.
MISSED DOSE: This is usually given as a one time dose. As with most medications, do not “double-up” the dose if a dose is missed.
STORAGE: Check product labeling for specific storage instructions pertaining to the powder, mixing solution and reconstituted vaccine.