Zostavax vaccine
Zostavax vaccine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine
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 Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine. Protection from the virus is thought to be long-lasting, but booster shots may be necessary for some individuals, especially adults.Absorption
The Zostavax vaccine is absorbed into the body through the intestines.Route of Elimination
The Zostavax vaccine is eliminated from the body through the feces and urine.Dosage and Administration
The recommended dosage for the Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine is generally considered safe and has no known long-term toxicity.Precautions
The Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine. It is important to inform your doctor if you are at risk for any of these diseases before receiving the vaccine.Drug Interactions
The Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine is not known to interact with any particular foods.Pregnancy Use
The Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine is safe for use in nursing mothers.Acute Overdose
No acute overdoses of the Zostavax vaccine have been reported.Contraindication
The Zostavax vaccine is contraindicated in individuals who are pregnant, immunocompromised, or have a history of severe allergies or previous reaction to the vaccine.Use Direction
The Zostavax vaccine should be given by intramuscular injection into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm as instructed by your healthcare provider.Storage Condition
The Zostavax vaccine 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 Zostavax vaccine is not known.Half Life
The half-life of the Zostavax vaccine is not known.Clearance
The clearance of the Zostavax vaccine is not known.Here you find in details version of Zostavax vaccine