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ANTIINFECTIVES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › VACCINES › BACTERIAL VACCINES › Pneumococcal vaccines
pneumococcus, purified polysaccharides antigen conjugated
J07AL02
Forms & Strengths
- Injectable suspension: 0.5 mL pre-filled syringe
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccine (13-valent, PCV13)
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccine (15-valent, PCV15)
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccine (20-valent, PCV20)
Adult Dosing
- PCV15 or PCV20: Single 0.5 mL intramuscular dose for adults naive to pneumococcal conjugate vaccination
- PCV15 should be followed by a dose of PPSV23 at least 8 weeks later in high-risk adults
- PCV20 alone: Single dose provides broad coverage, no subsequent PPSV23 needed in most immunocompetent adults
- Repeat or sequential vaccination guided by underlying medical conditions and prior vaccination history
Pediatric Dosing
- PCV13 or PCV15: 4-dose series at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age
- Catch-up schedules vary by age at initial vaccination and underlying medical conditions
- Administer 0.5 mL intramuscularly per dose
Indications
- Active immunization for the prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotypes included in the vaccine
- Prevention of pneumococcal pneumonia in adults and pediatric populations
Mechanism of Action
- Induces T-cell-dependent immune response to purified capsular polysaccharides of Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Conjugation of polysaccharide to a carrier protein enhances immunogenicity and establishes immunologic memory
Contraindications
- Severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of the vaccine or to diphtheria toxoid
- History of severe hypersensitivity to any diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine
Adverse Reactions
- Injection site reactions: pain, swelling, erythema
- Systemic reactions in adults: fatigue, headache, myalgia, arthralgia, chills
- Systemic reactions in pediatric patients: irritability, drowsiness, decreased appetite, fever
Drug Interactions
- Immunosuppressive therapies (chemotherapy, high-dose corticosteroids): may reduce the immune response to the vaccine
- Other inactivated vaccines: can be administered concurrently at different injection sites
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use