|
This medication is used to prevent infection by the influenza ("flu") virus. Influenza can cause serious illness (rarely death), especially in people at high risk from the infection (e.g., young children, the elderly, and people with chronic health problems). Vaccines work by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the virus.Vaccination is the best method for preventing infection and decreasing the seriousness of illness if you become infected. The brand and dose of vaccine you receive depends on your age. Check with your healthcare provider to see which age group may be vaccinated with this product. Influenza vaccination is not recommended in infants less than 6 months old.
|
|
| |
|
|
FluShield 2002-2003 IM images:
|
| Overview |
Photos |
How To Use |
Side Effects |
Precautions |
Missed Dose |
Drug Interactions |
|
FluShield 2002-2003 IM
Uses
This medication is used to prevent infection by the influenza ("flu") virus. Influenza can cause serious illness (rarely death), especially in people at high risk from the infection (e.g., young children, the elderly, and people with chronic health problems). Vaccines work by causing the body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the virus.Vaccination is the best method for preventing infection and decreasing the seriousness of illness if you become infected. The brand and dose of vaccine you receive depends on your age. Check with your healthcare provider to see which age group may be vaccinated with this product. Influenza vaccination is not recommended in infants less than 6 months old.
Notes
- Vaccination may be given to anyone wishing to reduce the chance of getting the flu.
- For optimal protection, the vaccine must be repeated each year since it may contain different strains than previous years.
Storage
- Refrigerate between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C).
- Do not freeze.
- Protect from light.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
How To Use
- Read the Vaccine Information Statement available from your healthcare provider before being given the vaccination.
- If you have any questions about the information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.The vial should be shaken well before using.
- The medication is given by injection into a muscle by a health care professional.
- Adults usually receive the injection in the upper arm, and children receive it in the upper thigh.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration.
- If either is present, do not use the liquid.The vaccination is usually given in the time from September to November when the number of cases of influenza virus begins to increase (the start of "flu season").
- Only one dose is required for people aged 9 years and older.
- Children under 9 years of age may receive a second dose depending on when the first dose was given.
- Discuss the dose schedule with your doctor.
Side Effects
- Soreness/redness/swelling/bruising at the injection site may occur and may last for up to 1-2 days.
- Fever, muscle aches, headache or weakness may also occur.
- If any of these effects continue beyond 2 days or become bothersome, inform your doctor.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, seizures.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before receiving this vaccination, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, to eggs or egg products, to chicken products, to any other vaccines, or to latex; or if you have any other allergies.This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions.
- Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: any fever, uncontrolled seizures or other nervous system disorder (e.g., encephalopathy).Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia, thrombocytopenia), history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, immune system disorders (e.g., autoimmune disorders, radiation treatment), seizures (e.g., epilepsy controlled by medication, febrile seizures) or history of other nervous system disorders, vaccination history including previous reactions to any vaccines.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk.
- Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Missed Dose
Drug Interactions
- Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it.
- Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before receiving this vaccine, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: "blood thinners" (e.g., warfarin, heparin), corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, prednisone), cancer chemotherapy, immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine, efalizumab, tacrolimus).
|
CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
|
.gif)
Large Text