Pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine (PPSV), 23-valent
Generic name: pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine (PPSV), 23-valent [ NOO-moe-KOK-al-POL-ee-SAK-a-rides, 23-VAY-lent ]
Brand name: Pneumovax 23
Dosage form: injectable solution (-)
Drug class:Bacterial vaccines
What is pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine (PPSV)?
Pneumococcal disease is a serious infection caused by a bacteria that can infect the sinuses, inner ear, lungs, blood, and brain. These conditions can be fatal.
Pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine (PPSV) is used to help prevent disease caused by pneumococcal bacteria. This vaccine contains 23 different types of pneumococcal bacteria.
PPSV is for use in adults 50 years and older, and in people at least 2 years old who have an increased risk of developing pneumococcal disease due to certain medical conditions.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends this vaccine in adults 65 years and older even if they had a pneumococcal vaccine before the age of 65.
This vaccine helps your body develop immunity to the disease, but will not treat an active infection you already have.
Like any vaccine, pneumococcal polysaccharides vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.
Warnings
You should not receive a booster vaccine if you had a life-threatening allergic reaction after the first shot.
Before taking this medicine
You should not receive this vaccine if you ever had a severe allergic reaction to a pneumococcal vaccine.
Tell the vaccination provider if you or the child has:
heart problems;
a breathing disorder;
a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine); or
if you are receiving radiation or chemotherapy.
You can still receive a vaccine if you have a minor cold. In the case of a more severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until you get better before receiving this vaccine.
Tell the vaccination provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How is this vaccine given?
This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle or under the skin.
PPSV is usually given as 1 shot. You may need another shot if you are at high risk of infection with pneumococcal bacteria.
Keep taking any antibiotic your doctor has prescribed to help protect you against pneumococcal disease.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since PPSV is usually given only one time, you will most likely not be on a dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to occur.
