Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PNEUMOCOCCAL PEDIATRIC VACCINE - INJECTION

(NEU-mo-KOK-al pee-dee-AT-rik vack-SEEN)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prevnar

Uses

This vaccine helps protect young children (e.g., infants and toddlers) against serious infections (e.g., meningitis, pneumonia) due to certain bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae).

How To Use

Learn how to prepare and inject this vaccine. If any of the information is unclear, consult the doctor or pharmacist. Before using, shake the injection well. Inject this medication into a muscle (IM) as directed by the doctor. Do not inject this medication into a vein (IV). If this vaccination is given before spleen surgery or before receiving cancer chemotherapy or other drugs that suppress the immune system, it should be given at least 2 weeks before these procedures to be effective. Consult the doctor or pharmacist for more information. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

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 the doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: unusual weakness (fatigue), tingling or numbness of the hands or feet, easy bleeding or bruising, swollen glands. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: your vaccination/immunization history, recent illness or fever, blood disorders (e.g., bleeding problems, low platelets), immune system problems (e.g., due to cancer treatments, HIV), any allergies (especially to diphtheria toxoid or latex). This vaccine is not recommended for use in adults. Therefore, it is not recommended for use in pregnancy. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. This vaccine is not recommended for use in a nursing mother.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication the child may use, especially: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin or heparins), drugs that suppress the immune system (e.g., cyclosporine, prednisone), anti-cancer drugs (chemotherapy). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact the local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Overdose with this vaccine is highly unlikely.

Notes

Consult the doctor or pharmacist about the need for other vaccines to prevent potentially serious illness (e.g., flu shots).

Missed Dose

Not applicable.

Storage

Store in a refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 to 8 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze.