Shing it Up: Your Guide to Shingrix
Shingrix Details: Potential Adverse Reactions, Pricing, Competitors, Comparison with Zostavax, and Additional Information
Shingrix is a badass vaccine that helps protect you from shingles - that painful, itchy rash caused by the almighty herpes zoster virus. Here's what you need to know about this life-saver:
Who can benefit from Shingrix?
Shingrix is recommended for people:
- aged 50 and over
- aged 18 and over who have a higher risk of developing shingles, like those with compromised immune systems
How is Shingrix delivered?
This bad boy comes in the form of an intramuscular injection, typically in your upper arm. You'll receive two separate doses of the vaccine, about 2-6 months apart. Your healthcare provider will handle the needle action during a quick visit to their office or pharmacy.
How does Shingrix work?
Shingrix introduces parts of the shingles virus to your body, priming your immune system to kick that virus’s ass when it tries to bring the rash party.
Is Shingrix FDA-approved?
You bet your sweet bippy it is! Shingrix was given the green light by the FDA in 2017.
Alternatives to Shingrix?
While Shingrix is the star of the show, there was an alternative shingles vaccine called Zostavax. Unfortunately, Zostavax is no longer available in the US. Don't worry; Shingrix has you covered.
Side Effects of Shingrix
No vaccine is handed out without side effects, and Shingrix is no exception. Here are some possible side effects:
More common side effects:- pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site- headache- muscle pain- nausea- vomiting- diarrhea- upset stomach- dizziness or fainting- flu-like symptoms such as fever, shivering, and feeling tired
Serious side effects:While serious side effects are rare, it's essential to be on the lookout for them. Call your doctor right away if you experience any vaccine reactions that seem severe or persist for an extended period. Potential serious side effects include:
- severe allergic reactions
- Guillain-Barré syndrome (a rare condition that affects your immune system)
Shingrix Costs
The cost of Shingrix varies depending on your insurance and the pharmacy you visit. Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to know your specific costs.
Financial and insurance assistance
If you need help covering the costs, GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, Shingrix’s manufacturer, offers the GSKforyou program. Visit their website or call 866-728-4368 to find out if you’re eligible for support.
Shingrix is not a live vaccine
Unlike some vaccines, Shingrix is an inactive vaccine, meaning it’s made from a killed version of the shingles virus. This makes it safer for those with weakened immune systems.
Shingrix vs. Zostavax
Zostavax was a shingles vaccine that was live, meaning it contained a weakened form of the virus. Live vaccines can sometimes pose risks for those with compromised immune systems. Shingrix is the recommended vaccine due to its high effectiveness and lack of live virus.
Dosing and Recommendations
Shingrix is given as two 0.5-mL injections in your upper arm. If more than 6 months have passed since your first dose, you should get the second dose as soon as possible, but don’t start the doses over again.
Caution with Alcohol:
There aren't any specific warnings about alcohol and Shingrix, but it's always a good idea to chat with your doc if you're concerned.
Interactions with Other Medications:
Shingrix can interact with certain medications, so it's crucial to mention all your prescription, over-the-counter, and any supplements or vitamins you’re taking to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to avoid any potential interactions.
Common Questions about Shingrix
Egg Allergies:
Good news if you're allergic to eggs: Shingrix doesn't contain any egg protein. However, some flu vaccines might. Let your doc know before getting any vaccines if you have an egg allergy.
Living with HIV:
The CDC hasn't made a recommendation regarding Shingrix for people living with HIV, but studies have not found any safety issues for those on customized HIV dosing schedules. Consult with your doctor for more information.
Age Range and Safety:
There's no upper age limit for Shingrix, so anyone 18 years old and above can get it, provided they meet the other criteria.
How safe is Shingrix?
Shingrix has been proven safe and effective in multiple clinical studies. However, always consult with your doctor to understand potential risks and benefits.
Immunocompromised Individuals
Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV, can receive Shingrix, but it's essential to talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
_[1] NIH (2021). Shingrix: Important Information. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/shingrix/about/Important-Information.html#:~:text=Shingrix%20is%20given%20as%202,over%20the%20tissues%20under%20your%20skin_
_[2] CDC (2021). Shingles Vaccines. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/shingrix/about/how-it-works.html_
_[3] FDA (2017). FDA approves first vaccine for the prevention of shingles. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-vaccine-prevention-shingles_
_[4] AARP (2021). Shingrix Side Effects. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/health/drugs-supplements/info-2021/shingrix-side-effects.html_
_[5] Mayo Clinic (2021). Shingrix. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/shingrix/about/pac-20393692_
- Shingrix, a recommended vaccine for individuals aged 50 and over, as well as those aged 18 and over with compromised immune systems, is delivered via intramuscular injection and is FDA-approved.
- The vaccine primers the immune system to combat the shingles virus, introduced in two separate doses, about 2-6 months apart.
- Side effects of Shingrix can include pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, dizziness or fainting, flu-like symptoms, severe allergic reactions, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
- The cost of Shingrix varies, but financial and insurance assistance may be available through GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals' GSKforyou program.
- Shingrix is safe for individuals allergic to eggs and those living with HIV upon consultation with a doctor, and there are no specific warnings about alcohol and Shingrix.
- Interactions with certain medications must be considered before receiving Shingrix, so it's crucial to mention all medications being taken to the healthcare provider or pharmacist.
- Shingrix is stored in a frozen state and should not be refrigerated or exposed to extreme temperatures, as it may affect its efficacy.
