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ANTIINFECTIVES FOR SYSTEMIC USE › VACCINES › VIRAL VACCINES › Measles vaccines
measles, combinations with mumps, rubella and varicella, live attenuated
J07BD54
Forms & Strengths
- Injectable suspension: live attenuated measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella viruses (MMRV)
- Lyophilized powder in single-dose vial with accompanying diluent
Adult Dosing
- 0.5 mL subcutaneously as a single dose (indicated for non-pregnant adults without evidence of immunity to measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella)
- Second 0.5 mL dose administered at least 4 to 8 weeks later for high-risk individuals (e.g., healthcare personnel, college students)
Pediatric Dosing
- 0.5 mL subcutaneously for children aged 12 months through 12 years
- First dose given at 12 to 15 months of age
- Second dose given at 4 to 6 years of age (can be administered earlier provided at least 3 months have elapsed since the first dose)
Indications
- Active immunization against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella in individuals 12 months through 12 years of age
- Active immunization in eligible adolescents and adults without evidence of immunity
Mechanism of Action
- Induces active immunity by replication of live attenuated strains of measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella-zoster viruses
- Stimulates production of neutralizing antibodies and cell-mediated immune responses mimicking natural infection without causing clinical disease
Contraindications
- History of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) to any component of the vaccine, including gelatin and neomycin
- Immunodeficient or immunosuppressed states (e.g., leukemia, lymphomas, cellular immune deficiencies, high-dose systemic corticosteroids)
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant within 1 month
- Active untreated tuberculosis
Adverse Reactions
- Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
- Fever (pyrexia)
- Measles-like, rubella-like, or varicella-like rash
- Irritability, malaise, and upper respiratory tract infection
- Febrile seizures (increased risk compared to separate MMR and varicella vaccines in children aged 12 to 23 months for the first dose)
Drug Interactions
- Immunosuppressive therapies (chemotherapy, high-dose corticosteroids) may reduce vaccine efficacy and increase the risk of disseminated viral infection
- Immune globulins and blood products can interfere with the immune response; delay vaccination for 3 to 11 months depending on the blood product dose
- Tuberculin skin testing may experience temporary suppression; administer skin test simultaneously or delay 4 to 6 weeks post-vaccination
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use