Zostavax is a brand of vaccine that contains live attenuated varicella-zoster virus. Zostavax is used for prevention of herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles. It is indicated for people at 50 years of age or older. Zostavax is reported to be 70% effective in people around the age of 50-69.
Zostavax is available as injections. It is administered as a single dose.
Common side effects of Zostavax include injection site pain, swelling, redness and bruising.
Common dosing schedule:
Injection is done in clinic or hospital settings.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Zostavax may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Zostavax is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Zostavax in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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