Warning: following info is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician. it should not be construed to indicate that use of drug is safe or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this med.

Pneumococcal vaccine - injection

(neu-mo-kok-al vack-seen)

common brand names: Pneumovax 23, Pnu-Imune 23

Pneumovax 23 Usage: it vaccine helps protect against serious infection (e.g., meningitis, bacteria in blood) due to certain bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae). use of this vaccine is important for preventing infection in individuals at risk (e.g., those with heart disease, lung disease, liver disease, diabetes, spleen dysfunction, HIV).

How to use Pneumovax 23: Learn how to prepare and inject this vaccine. If any of the information is unclear, consult your pharmacist or physician. Inject it drug into muscle (IM) or under the skin (SC) as directed by your physician. Use caution not to inject it vaccine too deep under skin (e.g., intradermally) or into vein (IV). Doing so may increase your risk for side effects. If you are receiving it vaccination before spleen surgery or before receiving cancer chemotherapy or other drugs that suppress youre immune system, this must be given at least 2 weeks before these procedures to be effective. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Before using, bucks this product visually since particles or discoloration. If ether is present, do not use the liquid.

Pneumovax 23 side effects: Injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, swelling), muscle or joint aches, nausea, or fever may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: unusual weakness (fatigue), tingling or numbness about hands or feet, easy bleeding or bruising, swollen glands. An allergic reaction to this med is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if this occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice any another effects not listed, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Pneumovax 23 Precautions: Tell your doctor you're medical history, especially of: your vaccination/immunization history, recent illness or fever, alcohol use, any allergies (especially to thimerosal, mercury, or phenol). this medication isn't recommended for use at children less than 2 years old. this med should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss risks & benefits with your doctor. It's not known whether it drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your healthcare professional before breast-feeding.

Pneumovax 23 drug interactions: Tell your physician of all prescription & nonprescription drug you may use, especially: 'blood thinners' (e.g., warfarin or heparins), drugs that suppress immune system (e.g., cyclosporine, prednisone), anti-cancer medications (chemotherapy). do not start or stop any medicine with out healthcare professional or pharmacist approval.

Pneumovax 23 Overdose: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Overdose with this vaccination is highly unlikely.

Pneumovax 23 special notes: Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the need for other vaccines to prevent potentially severe illness (e.g., flu shots).

If you missed Pneumovax 23 dose: Not applicable.

Pneumovax 23 Storage: Store in refrigerator between 36 & 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C) away from light & moisture. do not freeze.

Active Ingredients : Pneumococcal Vaccine