Generic
Varicella Virus Vaccine (Live Attenuated OKA Strain)
3 brands available in the market
At a glance
Varicella Virus Vaccine (Live Attenuated OKA Strain) is indicated for active immunization for the prevention of varicella in individuals 12 months of age and older.
Description
Varicella Virus Vaccine induces both cell-mediated and humoral immune responses to varicella-zoster virus. The relative contributions of humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity to protection from varicella are unknown.
Indications
- Chickenpox
- Active immunization against varicella infection
- Postexposure vaccination
- Routine immunization
Therapeutic class
Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin
Pharmacological class
Vaccine
Pharmacology
Live, attenuated varicella virus stimulates active immunity to disease caused by varicella-zoster virus.
Mechanism of action
Provides active immunity against varicella-zoster virus.
Dosage
Adult and Child (>12 years) Dose (SC):
- 0.5 mL, 2 doses; 2nd dose at least 4 weeks after 1st dose
- Postexposure: single 0.5 mL dose within 3-5 days post exposure; 2nd dose 4 weeks later
Child (1-12 years) Dose (SC):
- 0.5 mL as a single dose; if necessary, 2nd dose at least 3 months later
- Routine vaccination: 1st dose at 12-15 months; 2nd dose at 4-6 years
Administration
- Administer each 0.5 mL dose subcutaneously
- Inject into the outer aspect of the deltoid region of the upper arm or into the higher anterolateral area of the thigh
- Use only the sterile diluent supplied with the vaccine for reconstitution
- Administer within 30 minutes of reconstitution
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, consult your doctor.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Injection site swelling/rash/pruritus/erythema (20%)
- Fever >102°F (39°C) (15%)
- Varicella-like rash (injection site)
- Varicella-like rash (generalized)
Precautions & warnings
- Hypersensitivity to neomycin, gelatin or other components of the vaccine
- Defer vaccination for at least 5-11 months following blood or plasma transfusion, or immune globulin
- Delay vaccine for at least 1 month after stopping high dose immunosuppressive therapy
- Avoid close contact with high-risk individuals for up to 6 weeks
- Avoid salicylates for 6 weeks after vaccination
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to neomycin, gelatin or other components of the vaccine
- Malignant neoplasm of the bone marrow or lymphatic systems
- Patients currently on immunosuppressants
- Primary or acquired immunodeficiency states
- Active untreated tuberculosis
- Active febrile infection (>38.5°C)
- Pregnancy and avoid pregnancy for 1-3 months following vaccination
Drug interactions
- Salicylates: avoid for 6 weeks after vaccination (to reduce risk of Reye's syndrome)
- Antiviral agents active against herpes virus (aciclovir, valaciclovir): decreased vaccine efficacy
- Immunosuppressive agents (high dose corticosteroids, alkylating agents, antimetabolites, radiation therapy): decreased immunologic response to live vaccines
Food interactions
Food interactions are not significant.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Contraindicated; do not use during pregnancy and avoid pregnancy for 1-3 months following vaccination.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Not known if excreted in breast milk; use caution.
Pediatric use
No clinical data available in children less than 12 months of age
Geriatric use
Insufficient numbers of seronegative subjects aged 65 and over in clinical studies
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information
Overdose effects
Overdose is not applicable (vaccine).
Storage conditions
Store between 2-8°C. Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep out of reach of children.