Japanese encephalitis virus vaccine, inactivated adsorbed (Injection)

Introduction:

Japanese Encephalitis Virus Vaccine, Inactivated Adsorbed (jap-a-NEEZ en-sef-a-LYTE-is VYE-rus vak-SEEN, in-AK-ti-vay-ted ad-SORBD)

IXIARO® prevents Japanese encephalitis (brain fever). This is a vaccine.

Brand Name(s):

Ixiaro

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

If a dose is missed:

• This vaccine is given in 2 doses. Dose 2 is scheduled 28 days after Dose 1. It is very important that you receive both doses of the vaccine at least 7 days before you plan to travel out of the country. If you miss the second shot, call your doctor to make another appointment as soon as possible.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicines that may weaken the immune system, such as steroids (dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone) or cancer medicines, or if you are receiving radiation treatment.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have bleeding problems, a weakened immune system, or an illness with a high fever (more than 100°F).
• Avoid traveling to foreign countries within 7 days of the vaccine shot.
• To prevent mosquito bites, avoid outdoor activities, and use insect repellents with protective clothing when you are outdoors during hot weather. Use mosquito nets and stay indoors during twilight and after dark.
• This vaccine contains protamine sulfate, which may cause allergic reactions in some people. Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to protamine sulfate before you receive this vaccine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• Difficulty with breathing.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Back pain.
• Diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
• Headache.
• Joint or muscle pain.
• Pain, itching, redness, or swelling where the shot was given.
• Rash.
• Stuffy or runny nose.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: