GENERIC NAME: VARICELLA VIRUS VACCINE - INJECTION (vair-ih-SELL-uh VYE-russ vack-SEEN)

BRAND NAME(S): Varivax Vaccine

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: The varicella virus is commonly known as chickenpox. This medication is a vaccine given to persons over 1 year of age to protect against chickenpox.

HOW TO USE: This medication is given by subcutaneous injection into the upper arm by a health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles. If present, do not use the liquid. Children receive a single dose. Adults 12 years and older receive two doses 4 to 8 weeks apart.

SIDE EFFECTS: Most common are burning, stinging, pain or redness at the injection site, mild fever, skin rash. Also reported include cough, irritability, headache, loss of appetite and fatigue. If any of these effects continue beyond a few days or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience: high fever, breathing trouble, chills, hives, stiff neck. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: other illnesses or infections, blood disorders, immune system disorders, allergies (especially to gelatin or neomycin). This medication is not to be given during pregnancy. It is also recommended that women avoid pregnancy for three months after receiving this vaccine. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: aspirin and aspirin-containing medications, steroids, anti-cancer medications, immunosuppressants. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.