Pneumococcal Vaccine/Diphtheria Conjugate Vaccine (Injection)

Pneumococcal Vaccine, Diphtheria Conjugate (NOO-moe-KOK-al vak-seen dif-THEER-ee-a KON-joo-gate)

Given to babies and young children to prevent infections such as meningitis, pneumonia, and ear and sinus infections.

Brand Name(s):

Prevnar
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine should not be given to a child who has had an allergic reaction to pneumococcal or diphtheria vaccines.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• An intramuscular (in-tra-MUS-kyoo-ler) or IM injection is a shot given in the muscle of the upper arm, thigh, or buttocks.
• A doctor or nurse will give the shot.
• This vaccination is usually given as 4 separate shots over several months. Your doctor will tell you the correct number of shots and the schedule to be followed for your child's vaccinations.

If a dose is missed:

• It is important to receive all of the shots in this series.
• Try to keep all the appointments scheduled with your child's doctor. If you must cancel an appointment, reschedule it as soon as possible.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

• Make sure the doctor knows if your child is receiving any other medicines before getting this shot.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure the doctor knows if your child has an illness with a fever.
• Make sure the doctor knows if your child has any blood-clotting problems or if the child has ever had an allergic reaction to latex rubber.
• Patients who have problems with their immune systems, such as those who are getting medicine like prednisone, receiving chemotherapy for cancer, or who have HIV infection or AIDS, may not be fully protected by this vaccine. Because there may be some benefit, your child's doctor may still want to give the vaccine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Fever over 101° F
• Seizures or fainting
• Severe loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Severe sleepiness or irritability
• Skin rash, hives, or itching
• Swelling in face, throat, or lips
• Wheezing or trouble breathing

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

• Irritability, restlessness, or fussiness
• Loss of appetite with vomiting or diarrhea
• Lump or swelling where the shot was given
• Pain, tenderness, or redness where the shot was given
• Sleepiness

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