Prevenar 20 Vaccine is a Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine used to prevent infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is intended to provide protection against 20 different pneumococcus bacterial serotypes. 

Brand Name: Prevenar

Composition: Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine

Mechanism of Action:

Streptococcus pneumoniae polysaccharide antigens conjugated to the CRM197 carrier protein are presented to the immune system by Prevenar 13. This results in the generation of particular antibodies against 20 pneumococcal serotypes by activating B-cells in a T-cell-dependent manner. These antibodies prevent colonization, encourage phagocytosis, and neutralize microorganisms. Additionally, the vaccine creates immunological memory that lasts for quick reactions in the future.

Uses:

·       Pneumonia

·       Meningitis

·       Bacteremia

·       Otitis media (middle ear infections)

Dosage and Administration:

The vaccine is given as an intramuscular injection.

Side Effects:

·       Sleepiness

·       Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)

·       Decreased appetite

·       Irritability

·       Rash

·       Sleep deprivation

·       Vomiting

·       Diarrhea

·       Fever

·       Chills

Safety Advise:

Liver  

The safety of Prevenar Vaccine for individuals with liver issues is uncertain. Kindly speak with your healthcare provider.

Kidney  

The safety of Prevenar Vaccine for individuals with Kidney issues is uncertain. Kindly speak with your healthcare provider.

Pregnancy  

Prevenar Vaccine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, Kindly speak with your healthcare provider.

Breast Feeding  

Using Prevenar Vaccine while nursing is most likely dangerous. Kindly speak with your healthcare provider. 

Storage:

Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.

How to use this Medication?

The pneumococcal conjugate vaccination (PCV15 or PCV20) is typically administered in four doses to infants and young children at the ages of two, four, six, and twelve to fifteen months.

If they did not receive the necessary doses as babies and young children, children aged 24 to 59 months may be eligible to receive the pneumococcal conjugate vaccination.

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccination may be necessary for children and adolescents aged 6-18 with specific medical conditions if they have not previously received the recommended doses of PCV13, PCV15, or PCV20.

A different kind of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine may be required for certain adults who have previously received one. You can get further details from your healthcare provider.

References:

1.   Duggan ST. Pneumococcal polysaccharide conjugate vaccine (13-valent, adsorbed)[prevenar 13®]. Drugs. 2010 Oct;70(15):1973-86.

2.  Sucher AJ, Chahine EB, Nelson M, Sucher BJ. Prevnar 13, the new 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. Annals of Pharmacotherapy. 2011     Dec;45(12):1516-24.

3.   Duggan ST. Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Conjugate Vaccine (13-Valent, Adsorbed)[Prevenar 13®] Profile Report. Pediatric Drugs. 2012 Feb;14(1):67-9.

Disclaimer:

The main goal of Apothecare is to make sure that the information it provides to customers is correct, reliable, and reviewed by specialists. This website's contents and information are strictly for informational purposes. They are not meant to be used in place of expert medical advice, diagnosis, or care. Please consult your physician for guidance and ask any questions you may have about any condition or medication. If you read anything on Apothecare Wellness, do not discount or delay obtaining competent medical advice. Our goal is to enhance the doctor-patient relationship, not to take its place.

Marketer details

Name: Pfizer Limited

Address: The Capital, 8th Floor, Plot No. C Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai 400 051, India

Country of origin: Belgium

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is Prevenar 20 Vaccine?
Prevenar 20 (20-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, PCV20) is a vaccine designed to help protect against 20 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, which may be responsible for conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections in some individuals.

2. Who may benefit from receiving the Prevenar 20 Vaccine?
Prevenar 20 may be recommended for:
•         Adults aged 18 years and older
•         Individuals who may be at higher risk of pneumococcal disease (such as elderly individuals or those who are immunocompromised)
Please consult your doctor to determine whether this vaccine is appropriate for your individual health profile.

3. How is Prevenar 20 administered?
Prevenar 20 is typically given as a single intramuscular injection, usually into the upper arm (deltoid muscle), by a trained healthcare professional.

4. How many doses of Prevenar 20 are generally needed?
For most adults, a single dose may provide the intended protection. However, your doctor may recommend a different schedule based on your health status and prior vaccination history.

5. What are the possible side effects of Prevenar 20?
Some individuals may experience:
•         Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
•         Fatigue
•         Headache
•         Muscle pain
•         Mild fever
These reactions are generally short-lived and may resolve within a few days. Not all recipients will experience side effects. Consult your doctor if symptoms are severe or prolonged.

6. Can Prevenar 20 be given alongside other vaccines?
Prevenar 20 may generally be co-administered with certain other vaccines such as influenza vaccines. However, your doctor will advise on appropriate timing and injection sites to minimise potential interactions.

7. Who should not receive Prevenar 20?
Individuals with a known history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to any component of this vaccine, or to a prior dose of any pneumococcal or diphtheria toxoid-containing vaccine, may not be suitable candidates. Your doctor will assess your suitability before vaccination.

8. Does Prevenar 20 protect against all types of pneumonia?
No. Prevenar 20 is designed to offer protection against 20 specific pneumococcal strains only. It is not expected to protect against viral pneumonias or pneumonia caused by other bacteria not covered by the vaccine.

9. How long may protection from Prevenar 20 last?
The duration of protection is still being studied in long-term follow-up research. While current data are encouraging, the exact duration of immunity may vary between individuals. Your doctor can advise you on any booster recommendations as evidence evolves.

10. Is a prescription or doctor's recommendation required for Prevenar 20 in India?
Yes. Prevenar 20 requires a doctor's recommendation in India. It is administered in approved clinics, hospitals, or vaccination centres. Please consult your physician to assess your eligibility.

Medical Disclaimer:
Prevenar 20 Vaccine is a prescription-only medicine and must be used strictly under the supervision and guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Do not self-medicate, alter the dosage, or discontinue use without consulting your doctor. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results, benefits, and risks may vary. Always consult your physician before starting, changing, or stopping any medication.