Dukoral

Brand name:

Dukoral

Cholera is a serious disease caused by gram-negative bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. This disease can cause death and is spread most often through infected food or water.

When traveling to places where cholera is endemic, avoid eating uncooked food, especially fish and shellfish, and peel fruit yourself. Also, avoid intake of any fluids suspected with the infection. In the U.S. and other areas of the world that have good water and sewage systems, cases of cholera are rare. However, it is prevalent in developing countries and opting for a complete cholera vaccine may help protect you from cholera before travelling to these areas.

A booster dose of this vaccine is given every 6 months if prolonged stay in endemic areas is necessary. This vaccine is usually given intramuscularly but can only provide only 25 to 50% protection. Preventive measures and awareness are still the most important actions to take in order avoid this disease.

This vaccine is to be administered only by or under the supervision of healthcare professional.

Before taking this drug, the risks and benefits for your body should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications.

This vaccine is not recommended for infants up to 6 months of age. No studies suggest whether the vaccine works the same way or has the same side effects in the elderly as in younger adults. Adverse effects have been noted in animal studies but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women or animas regarding these effects. Infant risk is still undetermined when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects. Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other vaccines such as yellow fever vaccines.

Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this vaccine is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects. Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems.

The dose of this drug will be variable for different patients. The directions on the label or the prescription by your healthcare professional should be followed. The dosage of this drug you take depends on the medical problem for which you are using this drug. A booster dose every 6 months is needed as possibility of contact to cholera continues.

Regular visits and laboratory tests should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the vaccine as well as check for unwanted effects. Consult with your healthcare professional before planning to have any other vaccinations.

Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur. As your body adjusts to the medicine, the side effects will slowly disappear. Ask your healthcare professional about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

If any of the following side effects persists, or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional.

Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.