Buy Rx Shingrix (Zoster Vaccine Recombinant, Adjuvanted) Suspension 50 mcg/0.5 mL Single Dose Vial GSK, 10 Pack Refrigerated Item Online

Description

Shingrix is a vaccine that has been designed to protect adults against the herpes zoster virus or shingles. The vaccine was developed by GlaxoSmithKline, and it was approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017. Since its approval, Shingrix has become the vaccine of choice for adults over the age of 50 who are looking for an effective means of preventing shingles.

The Shingrix vaccine is made from a recombinant antigen, meaning that it does not use actual virus particles. Instead, it uses a specific protein (glycoprotein E) that is found on the surface of the varicella-zoster virus (the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles). This protein is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the gene that codes for this protein into a laboratory culture of cells. The cells then produce large quantities of the protein, which is purified and processed into the vaccine.

To make the vaccine more effective, an adjuvant is added. The adjuvant is a substance that helps to stimulate the immune system and enhance the body’s response to the vaccine. The adjuvant used in Shingrix is called AS01, which is a combination of two substances: a liposome-based system that contains a synthetic molecule called monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL), and a small molecule called QS-21. The AS01 adjuvant is designed to enhance the activity of the immune cells that are responsible for recognizing and attacking the herpes zoster virus.

One of the key advantages of the Shingrix vaccine is that it provides a high degree of protection against shingles. Clinical trials have shown that the vaccine is about 97% effective in adults over the age of 50. This is significantly higher than the effectiveness of the previous shingles vaccine, which was about 51% effective in adults aged 60 and older.

Another advantage of the Shingrix vaccine is that it provides long-lasting protection. Studies have shown that the vaccine can remain effective for up to six years after the initial vaccination. In contrast, the previous shingles vaccine was only effective for about five years.

The Shingrix vaccine is given as a series of two doses, with the second dose administered two to six months after the first dose. The vaccine is injected into the muscle of the upper arm. Most people do not experience any serious side effects from the vaccine, although mild reactions such as fatigue, headache, and muscle pain may occur.

The Shingrix vaccine is recommended for all adults over the age of 50, regardless of whether they have had chickenpox or shingles in the past. It is particularly important for adults who have a weakened immune system, such as those undergoing cancer treatment or organ transplants, as well as those who have previously had shingles.

In conclusion, the Shingrix vaccine is a highly effective means of preventing shingles in adults over the age of 50. It is made from a recombinant antigen and an adjuvant that enhances the immune response. The vaccine is safe and provides long-lasting protection, making it the vaccine of choice for preventing shingles.