Generic
Meningococcal polysaccharide ACWY Vaccine
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Meningococcal polysaccharide ACWY Vaccine is used for active immunization of children from 2 years of age, adolescents, and adults against meningococcal disease caused by meningococci of serogroups A, C, W135, and Y.
Description
Meningococcal serogroup A, C, Y, and W-135 capsular polysaccharide antigens are individually conjugated to diphtheria toxoid protein carrier. These products convey active immunity via stimulation of production of endogenously produced antibodies. Induces production of bactericidal antibodies directed against the capsular polysaccharides of serogroups A, C, Y, and W-135.
Indications
- Active immunization against meningococcal disease caused by serogroups A, C, W135, and Y in children 2 years+, adolescents, and adults
- Persons living in closed communities and close contacts of patients
- Travelers to countries where the disease is epidemic or highly endemic
Therapeutic class
Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin
Pharmacological class
Polysaccharide Vaccine
Pharmacology
Meningococcal serogroup A, C, Y, and W-135 capsular polysaccharide antigens are conjugated to diphtheria toxoid protein. This induces production of bactericidal antibodies against serogroups A, C, Y, and W-135.
Mechanism of action
Induces production of bactericidal antibodies to protect against meningococcal infection.
Dosage
Adults and Children 2 years+: 0.5 mL single dose, administered subcutaneously
Revaccination: For high-risk individuals, particularly children first vaccinated before age 4 years, consider revaccination after 2-3 years
Administration
- IM injection only (do not give IV, SC, or ID)
- Anterolateral thigh in infants; deltoid muscle in toddlers, adolescents, and adults
Missed dose
Not generally applicable (vaccine); consult doctor if needed.
Side effects
Very Common: Irritability, drowsiness, headache, pain and redness at injection site, fatigue
Common: Loss of appetite, gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), myalgia, swelling at injection site, fever
Uncommon: Dizziness
Precautions & warnings
- Postpone vaccination in acute severe febrile illness
- This vaccine does not protect against serogroups other than A, C, W135, and Y
- May not induce effective response in immunocompromised individuals
- Epinephrine should be available for anaphylactic reactions
- Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks
Contraindications
- Severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of a meningococcal capsular polysaccharide-, diphtheria toxoid-, or CRM197-containing vaccine, or to any component
Drug interactions
- Can be administered at the same time as other vaccines
- Different injectable vaccines should be given at different injection sites
- Do not mix with other medicinal products
Food interactions
No food interactions applicable (injection).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: No adequate human data or animal studies; use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh risks.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No adequate data; administer when needed and benefits outweigh risks.
Pediatric use
Dose established for children 2 years and older.
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly; no special precautions needed.
Renal / hepatic impairment
May not induce effective response in immunocompromised individuals.
Overdose effects
Overdose not applicable (vaccine).
Storage conditions
Store in refrigerator (2-8°C); do not freeze; store in original package to protect from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Meningococcal polysaccharide ACWY Vaccine