Herpes Zoster Vaccine belongs to the class of non-live recombinant subunit vaccines designed to stimulate the immune system against the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the virus that causes herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles. Unlike older live attenuated vaccines, the NMP formulation uses a purified recombinant antigen combined with an adjuvant system, making it suitable for use in a broader population, including immunocompromised individuals.

The recombinant zoster vaccine was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on October 20, 2017, for the prevention of herpes zoster in adults aged 50 years and older. It subsequently received approval for use in immunocompromised adults aged 18 years and older, expanding its protective role to individuals undergoing immunosuppressive therapy or living with conditions that weaken immune function. In India, the herpes zoster vaccine is available under prescription for eligible adults and is recommended as part of preventive healthcare for older adults and those at increased risk of viral reactivation.

The Herpes Zoster Vaccine uses include:

• Shingles (zoster)

• Zoster-related post-herpetic neuralgia (the long-lasting nerve pain that follows shingles).

Herpes Zoster Vaccine is administered as an intramuscular injection, typically into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm. It is administered as a two-dose series: the second dose is given 2 to 6 months after the first. For immunocompromised individuals, the interval between the two doses may be shortened to 1-2 months, as advised by the treating physician.

The vaccine is supplied as a lyophilised powder that must be reconstituted with the provided adjuvant suspension before administration. It should only be prepared and injected by a trained healthcare professional. Each dose is given as a single intramuscular injection of 0.5 mL. Completion of both doses is essential to achieve optimal and lasting protection against herpes zoster and its complications. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is recommended to confirm that both doses have been administered on schedule.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all medicines cause side effects, not everyone gets them.

Common

• Redness

• Pain

• Swelling

• Itching at the injection site

• Warmth

• Bruising

• Hard lump,

• Headache

• Pain in the arm or leg and joint

• Muscle pain

• Herpes Zoster Vaccine is a preventive vaccine and cannot be used to treat an active shingles infection or postherpetic neuralgia already in progress.

• This vaccine does not protect against chickenpox and should not be used as a substitute for the varicella vaccine.

• Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis have been reported. Medical support must be available at the time of vaccination.

• Fainting can occur after an injection. Recipients should rest and be observed for at least 15 minutes after each dose.

• The vaccine may not fully protect every individual. Protection can vary based on age, immune status, and overall health.

• Do not receive this vaccine if you have a known allergy to any of its ingredients. Inform your doctor of all known allergies before vaccination.

• Vaccination should be postponed if you have a moderate to severe illness with fever at the time of your appointment.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before receiving this vaccine.

• In individuals on immunosuppressive therapy, the immune response to the vaccine may be reduced. Your doctor will advise the best time to vaccinate.

• If you have previously received a live shingles vaccine, inform your doctor before taking this one, as a waiting interval may be recommended.

• Adults aged 50 years and above should not delay vaccination, as the risk of shingles and nerve pain increases with age.

• Always complete both doses on schedule. The second dose, within 2 to 6 months, is essential for full protection.

• Apply a cool cloth to the injection site to ease mild pain, redness, or swelling in the first day or two after vaccination.

• If you are about to start immunosuppressive therapy, try to complete both doses well before treatment begins for a stronger immune response.

• Do not confuse this vaccine with the chickenpox vaccine. They serve different purposes. Always clarify with your doctor before vaccination.

1. Merck & Co., Inc., Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on July 2022] [Accessed on 08th Jan  2024], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6101.pdf

2. Sanofi Pasteur Inc., US Food and Drug Administration, Revised on May 2023] [Accessed on 08th Jan  2024], https://www.fda.gov/media/108597/download#:~:text=SHINGRIX%20is%20a%20suspension%20for,after%20reconstitution%20is%200.5%20mL.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.