Shingles vaccines

No summary available for this substance.

Shingles Vaccines

Shingles vaccines are immunizations that reduce the risk of developing shingles, a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which also causes chickenpox. There are two primary types of shingles vaccines: Zostavax and Shingrix.

Category
Vaccine
Molecular Formula
Not applicable
Mechanism of Action
The vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce a specific immune response against the varicella-zoster virus.
Evidence Grade
A

Other Names

  • Herpes Zoster Vaccine
  • VZV Vaccine

Primary Benefits

  • Reduces the risk of shingles
  • Decreases the severity and length of the illness
  • Prevents postherpetic neuralgia (PHN)

Recommended Dosage

Zostavax Single dose for individuals 60 years and older
Shingrix Two doses, 2-6 months apart for individuals 50 years and older

Side Effects

  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Headaches
  • Fever

Precautions

  • Not recommended for individuals with weakened immune systems
  • Not recommended for individuals who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant

Interactions

  • Immunosuppressive therapies
  • Antiviral medications

Key References

  • Harvard Health Publishing: Shingles Vaccine: Should I Get It?
  • CDC: Shingles Vaccination
Longevity Supplements, Predatory Experts & Continuous Glucose Monitors | Dr. Eric Topol
Exploring Aging, Genetics, Disease Prevention, Nutrition, and Lifestyle Factors 1:44:03 0
“We could give like shingles vaccines. Today is the fourth study to show shingles vaccine lowers the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.”

No comments yet.

View all comments (0)