Shingrix (recombinant)

Herpes zoster is caused by the same virus (varicella) that leads to chickenpox in children. When this virus becomes active again, it can cause herpes zoster, or shingles. The recombinant zoster vaccine helps prevent shingles.

This vaccine does not contain live virus. It helps your body build immunity to shingles. This vaccine will not treat an active infection that has already developed in the body.

The recombinant zoster vaccine is used to prevent herpes zoster virus (shingles):

• in people age 50 and older, including those who previously received a live zoster vaccine (Zostavax); and
• in people 18 years and older who are or will be at increased risk of herpes zoster virus (shingles) due to a weak immune system caused by disease or treatment.

The recombinant zoster vaccine will not prevent or treat chickenpox.

Like any vaccine, the recombinant zoster vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

You should not receive this vaccine if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to a previous zoster vaccine.

You should not get this vaccine if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in this vaccine or after a previous dose of this vaccine.

Tell your vaccination provider if you:

• have ever had an allergic reaction to any vaccine;
• have ever fainted after getting an injection; or
• currently have shingles.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You may need to wait until after pregnancy to receive this vaccine.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed after receiving this vaccine.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

You should not get the second shot if you had a life-threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.

Keep track of any side effects you experience after receiving the recombinant zoster vaccine. When you get the second shot, inform the doctor if the first shot caused any side effects.

Getting shingles may pose a greater risk to your health than getting the vaccine to prevent it. Like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects, but the chance of serious side effects is very low.

Some individuals who received this vaccine experienced nervous system issues within 42 days after vaccination, but the risk of this side effect is very low. Seek immediate medical attention if you have:

• weakness or tingling;
• trouble speaking or swallowing;
• issues with balance or eye movement; or
• loss of bladder or bowel control.

Call your doctor right away if you have a high fever.

Common side effects include:

• headache, muscle pain;
• feeling tired;
• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• fever, shivering; or
• pain, redness, or swelling where the shot was given.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

Recombinant zoster vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

This vaccine is usually given in a series of 2 shots:

• The second shot may be given any time within 2 to 6 months after the first shot.
• For people who have a weak immune system, the second shot may be given any time within 1 to 2 months after the first shot.

You may receive this vaccine at the same time that you get a flu shot.

Read all patient information, medication guides, and instruction sheets provided to you. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Call your doctor if you miss the second dose or if you fall behind schedule. You must receive all recommended doses of this vaccine to be fully protected against disease.

An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to happen.

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any limits on food, drinks, or activities.

Other drugs may affect the zoster vaccine (recombinant), including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are using.