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Varilrix® is used for protection against infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine and works by introducing a weak form of the virus that the body’s immune system will produce antibodies against the virus and prevent infection.
Varicella (commonly known as chickenpox) is an infection that is easily spread from one person to another. Chickenpox is usually a mild infection but sometimes it can cause serious problems, such as pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, and a rare disease called Reye’s syndrome.
The varicella virus vaccine is also used for the prevention of herpes zoster (commonly known as shingles) in people 50 years of age and older.
This vaccine is administered only by or under the supervision of your doctor.
Varilrix® is best stored in the refrigerator. To prevent drug damage, do not freeze. There may be different brands of Varilrix® that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.
You should not flush Varilrix® down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also, tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
Varicella virus vaccine is not recommended for children under 9 months of age.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women should not receive live vaccines and pregnancy should be avoided for one month after receiving a live vaccine. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking Varilrix®. Varilrix® is a pregnancy risk category C, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:
Breastfeeding
Studies in women suggest that this medication poses minimal risk to the infant when used during breastfeeding.
These side effects may include:
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:
Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Varilrix® may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.
Products may interact with this drug, including:
Varilrix® may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.
Varilrix® may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Varilrix® (Varicella vaccine).
Adults and adolescents 13 years of age receive a dose of 0.5 ml followed by a second 0.5 ml dose a minimum of 6 weeks later.
Children 12 months to 12 years of age receive a single dose of 0.5 ml. A second dose of varicella vaccine may be recommended. Your doctor will decide if this is necessary.
Varilrix® is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:
In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.
If you miss a dose of Varilrix®, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Varilrix® Product Information. https://au.gsk.com/media/365011/varilrix_pi_009_01_approved.pdf. Accessed July 4, 2020
Varilrix®. https://www.mims.com/philippines/drug/info/varilrix. Accessed July 4, 2020