Pneumovax 23

Pneumovax 23 is an active immunizing agent used for the prevention of pneumococcal bacterial infection. This drug works by stimulating the production of antibodies in the body against the bacteria.

Pneumococcal infection can cause serious problems, such as:

• Pneumonia, which affects the lungs.
• Meningitis, which affects the brain.
• Bacteremia, which is a severe infection in the blood.

Pneumococcal infection is also an important cause of ear infections in children. Immunization against pneumococcal disease is recommended for all adults and children 2 years of age and older.

Before using Pneumovax 23, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. 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 use in infants and children younger than 2 years of age. Studies in the elderly have not demonstrated any geriatric-specific problems that would limit the utility of pneumococcal polyvalent vaccine. Unwanted effects are more likely to happen in elderly patients.

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 drugs such as:

• Varicella Virus Vaccine
• Rituximab

Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with this drug 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 such as:

• Brain disease
• Immune system problems
• Cardiovascular disease
• Lung disease
• Moderate to severe acute illness
• Thrombocytopenic purpura

Proper usage of Pneumovax 23 requires strict adherence to your doctor’s orders. A trained healthcare professional will be the only one to give you or your child this vaccine. This vaccine is injected into one of the muscles or under the skin, usually in the thigh or upper arm.

Pneumovax 23 vaccine is usually given only once to each person. Additional injections are only given for special cases, because of the possibility of more frequent and more severe side effects.

Before using Pneumovax 23, there are some precautions you must take. Regular visits should be made to your healthcare provider to track your progress and to monitor the effectiveness of the drug. This vaccine is given only as a single dose.

Seek immediate medical if you have symptoms of anaphylaxis such as:

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling of the tongue and throat
• Trouble breathing

after receiving the vaccine. This vaccine will not protect you or your child against all types of pneumococcal infections. This vaccine is also ineffective against an active infection.

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Pneumovax 23. Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.

Seek advice from your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms such as:

• Chills, Body aches or pain
• Cough
• Difficulty with breathing
• Ear congestion
• Fever
• Headache
• Loss of voice
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Unusual tiredness or weakness, fever over 102.2 В°F
• Black, Tarry stools
• Bleeding gums
• Bloating or Swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
• Blood in the urine or stools
• Burning, Crawling, Itching, Numbness, Prickling, "Pins and Needles", or Tingling feelings
• Decreased movement of the legs
• Difficulty with breathing or swallowing
• Dizziness
• Eye pain
• Fast heartbeat
• Feeling of discomfort
• General feeling of discomfort or illness
• Headache
• Hives inflammation of the joints
• Itching, especially of the feet or hands
• Itching, Pain, Redness, Swelling, Tenderness, or Warmth on the skin
• Large, Hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
• Muscle aches
• Pinpoint red spots on the skin
• Puffiness or Swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
• Rapid weight gain
• Rash
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen lymph glands
• Swollen, Painful, or Tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
• Tightness in the chest
• Tingling of the hands or feet
• Reddening of the skin, especially around the ears
• Swelling of the eyes, face, or inside of the nose
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Unusual weight gains or loss
• Wheezing

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. 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.