Rotavirus vaccine, live (By mouth)

Introduction:

Rotavirus Vaccine, Live (ROE-ta-vye-rus vak-SEEN, lyve)

Prevents infants and children from getting rotavirus infection.

Brand Name(s):

Rotarix

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

• A nurse or other trained health professional will give your child this vaccine. It is given by mouth.
• Your child should receive 2 doses of this medicine. The first dose should be given at around 6 weeks of age. The second dose should be given at least 4 weeks after the first dose. Both doses should be given to your child before 6 months of age.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If your child missed the scheduled dose, call your child's doctor for another appointment.

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 child's doctor knows if your child is receiving a treatment that may weaken the immune system, such as steroid medicine, radiation treatment, or medicine to treat cancer.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your child's doctor knows if your child has diarrhea, vomiting, a weak immune system because of a disease (such as HIV or AIDS), or any type of cancer.
• Tell your child's doctor if your child spends time with a person who has immune system problems or is getting cancer treatment.
• The oral applicator of this vaccine contains dry natural latex rubber. Make sure your child's doctor knows if your child has had an allergic reaction to latex rubber.

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.
• Diarrhea or vomiting.
• Fever.
• Red or black stools.
• Severe stomach pain.

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

• Cough or runny nose.
• Crying, fussiness, or irritability.
• Loss of appetite.

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