VARIVAX

VARIVAX Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? VARIVAX is a brand name. Its generic name is Varicella Virus Vaccine.

Introduction

Varicella virus vaccine (abbreviated VVV) is a live attenuated virus vaccine used to protect againstChickenpox and the related herpes zoster. It is the first vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for the prevention ofChickenpox, and is widely used both in the United States and worldwide.

Uses for VARIVAX

The Varicella virus vaccine is used to prevent infection caused by the Chickenpox virus, which can cause severe illness in children, particularly those who are immunocompromised. It is also recommended for adults who have not had Chickenpox and are at an increased risk of severe complications from the infection. The vaccine is not recommended for pregnant women.

Mechanism of Action

The VARIVAX contains a live attenuated virus that is not capable of causing disease but still stimulates the body's immune system to recognize and respond to the virus. The vaccine stimulates the body to produce antibodies against the virus, which helps the body to fight off an infection if exposed to the live virus.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Most people will develop immunity to Chickenpox within one to two weeks after receiving the VARIVAX. Protection from the virus is thought to be long-lasting, but booster shots may be necessary for some individuals, especially adults.

Absorption

The VARIVAX is absorbed into the body through the intestines.

Route of Elimination

The VARIVAX is eliminated from the body through the feces and urine.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage for the VARIVAX is a single intramuscular injection containing a minimum of 1,000 PFU (plaque-forming-units). The vaccine should be given in the deltoid muscle of the upper arm.

Side Effects

Common side effects associated with the VARIVAX include local pain or swelling at the injection site, headache, mild fever, sore throat, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint pain, and/or rash. Rarely, more severe reactions such as anaphylaxis may occur.

Toxicity

The VARIVAX is generally considered safe and has no known long-term toxicity.

Precautions

The VARIVAX is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals who are immunocompromised. People who have a history of severe allergies or a previous reaction to the vaccine should also not receive it.

Interactions

The VARIVAX can interact with certain medications, such as antiviral medications and certain immunosuppressive medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking before receiving the vaccine.

Disease Interactions

Certain diseases, such as HIV or AIDS, can affect the efficacy of the VARIVAX. It is important to inform your doctor if you are at risk for any of these diseases before receiving the vaccine.

Drug Interactions

The VARIVAX can interact with certain drugs, including antiviral medications and certain immunosuppressive drugs. It is important to tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking before receiving the vaccine.

Food Interactions

The VARIVAX is not known to interact with any particular foods.

Pregnancy Use

The VARIVAX is not recommended for pregnant women due to the risk of transmission of the virus to the fetus.

Lactation Use

It is not known whether the VARIVAX is safe for use in nursing mothers.

Acute Overdose

No acute overdoses of the VARIVAX have been reported.

Contraindication

The VARIVAX is contraindicated in individuals who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have a history of severe allergies or previous reaction to the vaccine.

Use Direction

The VARIVAX should be given by intramuscular injection into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm as instructed by your healthcare provider.

Storage Condition

The VARIVAX should be stored at 2°-8°C (36°-46°F). Do not freeze the vaccine and protect from light.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for the VARIVAX is not known.

Half Life

The half-life of the VARIVAX is not known.

Clearance

The clearance of the VARIVAX is not known.

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