Zostavac for Shingles

Were you looking for information about Zostavax? Zostavac for shingles is a common variation and misspelling of Zostavax.
 
Zostavax® is a medication that is used to help prevent shingles in people 60 years and older. The vaccine, which is a live but weakened version of the varicella-zoster virus, works by causing the body to produce an immune system response to the virus.
 
When given for shingles, Zostavax is administered as a single injection and is typically effective for at least four years. Side effects may include headache and injection site reactions. While the medicine is generally safe, certain people should avoid it, such as people who are allergic to neomycin or gelatin, or women who are pregnant.
 
(Click Zostavax for more information on this vaccine, including a description of how the drug works, an explanation of what you should know before receiving it, and a list of possible side effects that may occur. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;