Capvaxive® vaccine
This product is manufactured by Merck Canada using the ingredient pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.
This product is taken via intramuscular injection.
Why is it prescribed?
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Pneu-C-21) is indicated for adults 18 years and older for the prevention invasive pneumococcal disease (including meningitis, blood infection, empyema) caused by the 21 strains of pneumococci contained in the vaccine.
- Capvaxive® is injected into the deltoid (upper arm muscle).
- This vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines.
- Store in the refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Alternatives
Other products that have the same ingredient as Capvaxive® vaccine are •Prevnar 20™ •Vaxneuvance® vaccine •
See other products used in the treatment of •pneumonia •respiratory tract infections •
The dosage is 0.5 mL.
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine contains several strains of pneumococcal bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae) combined with a carrier protein. When injected, the vaccine in the body familiarizes the immune system to the pneumococcal bacteria. If the person is exposed to the bacteria again, the immune system can mount a quick, specific attack against the bacteria and ultimately resist infection. Protection offered by this vaccine is only against those strains of bacteria from which the vaccine is prepared.
Generally this vaccine is well tolerated and most people experience only minor side effects, which may include:
- reactions where the vaccine was injected (e.g., redness, mild pain, swelling)
- fever
- fatigue
- headache
- joint/muscle pain
Uncommon:
- allergic reaction (e.g. rash; hives; wheezing; difficulty breathing; swelling of lips, face, tongue)
- People with a weakened immune system from a medical condition or due to medications, may have a reduced response to this vaccine.
- Medications given by intramuscular injection should be given with caution to people with bleeding disorders.
- Administration of pneumococcal vaccine should be postponed if suffering from severe acute illness. Immunization should not be delayed because of minor acute illness, with or without fever.
Use is not recommended in the following situations:
- prior severe allergic reaction to pneumococcal vaccine
- allergy to any component of the vaccine
Use in pregnancy: There is no evidence to suggest that the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine poses a risk to the fetus or to the pregnancy.
Use in breastfeeding: Breastfeeding women can be vaccinated with the pneumococcal vaccine.