Rubella virus vaccine, live (Injection)

Introduction:

Rubella Virus Vaccine, Live (roo-BELL-a VYE-rus vak-SEEN, lyve)

Prevents rubella (German measles).

Brand Name(s):

Meruvax II

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 under your skin.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines while you are receiving this medicine. Vaccines may not work as well, or they could make you ill while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have received a blood transfusion or treatment in the past 3 months.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have tuberculosis (TB) or any blood disease.
• Women who receive this vaccine should wait 3 months before getting pregnant.
• This medicine lowers the number of some types of blood cells in your body. Because of this, you may bleed or get infections more easily. To help with these problems, avoid being near people who are sick or have infections. Wash your hands often. Stay away from rough sports or other situations where you could be bruised, cut, or injured. Brush and floss your teeth gently. Be careful when using sharp objects, including razors and fingernail clippers.
• Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

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.
• Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash.
• Diarrhea or vomiting.
• High fever, fainting, dizziness, or headache.
• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

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

• Blurred vision or deafness.
• Burning, pain, redness, or swelling at the site of injection.
• Mild fever or joint pains.
• Nausea.

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