Zostavax II (Varicella Zoster Virus Live Attenuated Vaccine)

Additional information

Zostavax II (Varicella Zoster Virus Live Attenuated Vaccine) is typically administered as a single injection under the skin of the outside of the upper arm. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. It will be given to you by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinical setting. If you forget a dose, contact your pharmacist. 
 
WARNING: Like all vaccines, Zostavax 2 may not fully protect 100% of those who get the vaccine. Not for use in patients <50 years of age. This vaccine is not a substitute for varicella vaccine and should not be used in children and adolescents.
 
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause chicken pox or shingles, fever, hives and rash at the injection site.
It may cause joint pain, muscle pain, and swollen glands near the injection site (that may last a few days to a few weeks).
It may cause nausea, diarrhea, or flu-like symptoms. 
 
Contraindications: History of anaphylactic/anaphylactoid (allergic) reaction to gelatin, neomycin (an antibiotic), excluding contact dermatitis (a rash that crops up on your skin when you touch or have a reaction to a certain substance) to neomycin, or any other component of the vaccine. Do not use in case of immunosuppression (suppressed immune system) or immunodeficiency (low immunity), including individuals with leukemia (blood cancer), lymphomas (cancer of the lymphatic system, a germ-fighting network), or other malignant cancers affecting the bone marrow (a spongy tissue that produces platelets (responsible for blood clotting) and white and red blood cells) or lymphatic systems. Patients with AIDS (the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body's immune system is badly damaged because of the virus) or clinical manifestations of HIV (virus that attacks cells that help the body fight infection), or those receiving immunosuppressive (lowering immunity) therapy (including high-dose corticosteroids) should not use . 
 
Taking this medication during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or become pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your family doctor.
 
Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Zostavax II (Varicella Zoster Virus Live Attenuated Vaccine)