This vaccine reduces your risk of getting chickenpox caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox produces a red rash that blisters, then scabs over. It’s very contagious.

What is this medication?

VARICELLA VACCINE (var uh SEL uh vak SEEN) reduces the risk of varicella (chickenpox). It does not treat chickenpox. It is still possible to get chickenpox after receiving this vaccine, but the symptoms may be less severe or not last as long. It works by helping your immune system learn how to fight off a future infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Varivax, Zostavax

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Cancer
  • Fever or infection
  • Immune system problems
  • Infection such as tuberculosis
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to varicella vaccine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is injected under the skin. It is given by your care team.

This vaccine requires 2 doses to get the full benefit. Set a reminder for when your next dose is due.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. This sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about the use of this vaccine in children. While it may be given to children as young as 12 months of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up (booster) doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

  • Medications that lower your chance of fighting infection
  • Medications to treat cancer

This medication may also interact with the following:

  • Aspirin and aspirin-like medications
  • Blood transfusions
  • Immunoglobulins
  • Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team regularly.

This vaccine, like all vaccines, may not fully protect everyone.

Talk to your care team if you may be pregnant. Serious birth defects can occur if you take this medication during pregnancy and for 3 months after your last dose. Talk to your care team for more information.

After getting this vaccine, it may be possible to give chickenpox to others. For 6 weeks, avoid people with weak immune systems. Also avoid anyone who is pregnant who has not had chickenpox and infants. Talk to your care team if you have questions.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Diarrhea
  • Fever
  • General discomfort and fatigue
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Pain, redness, irritation, or bruising at the injection site
  • Skin rash

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This vaccine is only given by your care team. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.