Varizost Injection 0.5 ml/vial

Uses of Varizost Injection 0.5 ml/vial

• Prevention of Chickenpox

How does Varizost Injection 0.5 ml/vial work?

The live, attenuated varicella virus stimulates active immunity against varicella-zoster virus, leading to the production of endogenously produced antibodies.

Side Effects of Varizost Injection 0.5 ml/vial

Common adverse reactions include fever and injection-site complaints, with varicella-like rashes reported in all age groups.

Quick Suggestions:

• Avoid salicylates for 6 weeks post-vaccination to reduce Reye's syndrome risk.
• Delay vaccination for 5-11 months after blood or plasma transfusion, or administration of immune globulin.
• Postpone vaccine administration for at least 1 month after discontinuing high-dose immunosuppressive therapy.
• Avoid close contact with high-risk individuals for up to 6 weeks post-vaccination.
• Use caution in lactating individuals due to unknown excretion in breast milk.
• Decreased vaccine efficacy with antiviral agents active against herpes virus (e.g., aciclovir, valaciclovir).
• Reduced immunologic response to live vaccines in patients on immunosuppressive agents like high-dose corticosteroids, alkylating agents, antimetabolites, or radiation therapy.

Reconstitution:

Use sterile syringes and diluent supplied with the vaccine. Administer immediately after reconstitution and discard unused portions.

Pharmacology:

The vaccine stimulates both cell-mediated and humoral immune responses against the varicella-zoster virus, although the specific contributions of each to protection are not fully understood.

Dosage & Administration of Varizost Injection 0.5 ml/vial

• Administered subcutaneously in the outer aspect of the deltoid region of the upper arm or into the higher anterolateral area of the thigh.
• Children (12 months to 12 years): First dose at 12-15 months, with a second dose at 4-6 years, with at least 3 months between doses.
• Adolescents (≥13 years) and Adults: Two doses administered at a minimum interval of 4 weeks.
• Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 months.
• Geriatric Use: Limited data in individuals aged 65 and over.

Interaction

• Salicylates during wild-type varicella infection may lead to Reye syndrome.
• Immune globulins and blood products given concurrently may interfere with the immune response.
• Vaccine administration may temporarily reduce tuberculin skin sensitivity.

Contraindications

• Severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or previous varicella-containing vaccine.
• Immunodeficiency or immunosuppression.
• Active untreated tuberculosis.
• Pregnancy or planning pregnancy within 3 months.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Contraindicated during pregnancy due to the live virus content. Limited data on excretion in human milk; consider benefits vs. risks before administration.

Precautions & Warnings

• Evaluate immune competence before administration.
• Avoid close contact with high-risk individuals post-vaccination.
• Avoid concomitant use of immune globulins and blood products.
• Salicylates should be avoided for 6 weeks following vaccination in children and adolescents.

Storage Conditions

Store between 2-8°C, protect from light, and do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.