Zostavax

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ANNEX I

SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS

 



2

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection
ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe

shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

2. QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPOSITION

After reconstitution, 1 dose (0.65 mL) contains: 

Varicella-zoster virus1, Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) not less than 19,400 PFU2
1
produced in human diploid (MRC-5) cells

2PFU = Plaque-forming units

This vaccine may contain traces of neomycin. See sections 4.3 and 4.4.

For the full list of excipients, see section 6.1.

3. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM

Powder and solvent for suspension for injection.

The powder is a white to off-white compact crystalline plug.
The solvent is a clear, colourless fluid.

4. CLINICAL PARTICULARS

4.1 Therapeutic indications

ZOSTAVAX is indicated for prevention of herpes zoster (“zoster” or shingles) and herpes 
zoster-related post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN).

ZOSTAVAX is indicated for immunization of individuals 50 years of age or older.

4.2 Posology and method of administration

Posology

Individuals should receive a single dose (0.65 mL).

The need for a booster dose is not known. See sections 4.8 and 5.1.

Paediatric population

The safety and efficacy of ZOSTAVAX in children and adolescents have not been established. No 
data are available.

There is no relevant use of ZOSTAVAX in children and adolescents for prevention of primary 
varicella infection (chickenpox).

 



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Method of administration

The vaccine can be injected subcutaneously (SC) or intramuscularly (IM), preferably in the deltoid 
region (see sections 4.8 and 5.1).

The vaccine should be administered subcutaneously in patients with severe thrombocytopenia or any 
coagulation disorder (see section 4.4).

The vaccine should under no circumstances be injected intravascularly.

For precautions to be taken before handling or administering the medicinal product see section 6.6.

For instructions on reconstitution of the medicinal product before administration see section 6.6.

4.3 Contraindications

 History of hypersensitivity to the active substance, to any of the excipients or trace residuals 
(e.g. neomycin) (see sections 4.4 and 6.1).

 Primary and acquired immunodeficiency states due to conditions such as: acute and chronic 
leukaemias; lymphoma; other conditions affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system; 
immunosuppression due to HIV/AIDS (see sections 4.4, 4.8 and 5.1); cellular immune 
deficiencies.

 Immunosuppressive therapy (including high-dose corticosteroids) (see sections 4.4 and 4.8);
however, ZOSTAVAX is not contraindicated for use in individuals who are receiving 
topical/inhaled corticosteroids or low-dose systemic corticosteroids or in patients who are 
receiving corticosteroids as replacement therapy, e.g., for adrenal insufficiency (see sections 4.8 
and 5.1).

 Active untreated tuberculosis.
 Pregnancy. Furthermore, pregnancy should be avoided for 1 month following vaccination (see 

section 4.6).

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

Appropriate medical treatment and supervision should always be readily available in case of a rare 
anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reaction following the administration of the vaccine, as there is a 
possibility of hypersensitivity reactions, not only to the active substances, but also to the excipients 
and trace residuals (e.g. neomycin) present in the vaccine (see sections 4.3, 4.8 and 6.1).

Neomycin allergy generally manifests as a contact dermatitis. However, a history of contact dermatitis 
due to neomycin is not a contraindication to receiving live virus vaccines.

ZOSTAVAX is a live, attenuated varicella-zoster vaccine and administration to individuals who are 
immunosuppressed or immunodeficient may result in disseminated varicella-zoster virus disease, 
including fatal outcomes. Patients who previously received immune suppressive therapy should be 
carefully evaluated for the reconstitution of the immune system prior to receiving Zostavax (see 
section 4.3). 

The safety and efficacy of ZOSTAVAX have not been established in adults who are known to be 
infected with HIV with or without evidence of immunosuppression (see section 4.3) however, a phase 
II safety and immunogenicity study in HIV-infected adults with conserved immune function (CD 4+T 
cell count ≥ 200 cells/µL) has been completed (see sections 4.8 and 5.1).

This vaccine should be given subcutaneously to individuals with severe thrombocytopenia or any 
coagulation disorder, because these individuals may bleed following intramuscular injections.

ZOSTAVAX is not indicated for treatment of zoster or PHN.

 



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Immunisation should be postponed in individuals suffering from moderate to severe acute febrile 
illness or infection.

As for any vaccine, vaccination with ZOSTAVAX may not result in protection in all vaccine 
recipients. See section 5.1.

Transmission
In clinical trials with ZOSTAVAX, transmission of the vaccine virus has not been reported. However, 
post-marketing experience with varicella vaccines suggests that transmission of vaccine virus may 
occur rarely between vaccinees who develop a varicella-like rash and susceptible contacts [for 
example, varicella-zoster virus (VZV) susceptible infant grandchildren]. Transmission of vaccine virus 
from varicella vaccine recipients who do not develop a varicella-like rash has also been reported. This 
is a theoretical risk for vaccination with ZOSTAVAX. The risk of transmitting the attenuated vaccine 
virus from a vaccinee to a susceptible contact should be weighed against the risk of developing natural 
zoster and potentially transmitting wild-type VZV to a susceptible contact.

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

ZOSTAVAX can be administered concomitantly with inactivated influenza vaccine as separate 
injections and at different body sites (see section 5.1).

The concomitant use of ZOSTAVAX and a 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine resulted 
in reduced immunogenicity of ZOSTAVAX in a small clinical trial. However, data collected in a large 
observational study did not indicate increased risk for developing herpes zoster after concomitant 
administration of the two vaccines.

No data are currently available regarding concomitant use with other vaccines.

Concurrent administration of ZOSTAVAX and anti-viral medications known to be effective against 
VZV has not been evaluated.

4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy
There are no data on the use of ZOSTAVAX in pregnant women. Traditional non-clinical studies are 
insufficient with respect to reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3). However naturally-occurring 
varicella-zoster virus infection is known to sometimes cause foetal harm. ZOSTAVAX is not 
recommended to be administered to pregnant women. In any case, pregnancy should be avoided for 
one month following vaccination (see section 4.3).

Breast-feeding
It is unknown whether VZV is secreted in human milk. A risk to the newborns/infants cannot be 
excluded. A decision must be made whether to discontinue breast-feeding or to not administer 
ZOSTAVAX taking into account the benefit of breast-feeding for the child and the benefit of 
vaccination for the woman.

Fertility
ZOSTAVAX has not been evaluated in fertility studies.

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines

No studies on the effects on the ability to drive or use machines have been performed. However, 
ZOSTAVAX is expected to have no or negligible influence on ability to drive and use machines.

 



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4.8 Undesirable effects

a. Summary of the safety profile

The most common adverse reactions reported in pivotal clinical trials were injection-site reactions. 
Headache and pain in the extremity were the most common systemic adverse reactions. Most of these 
local and systemic adverse reactions were reported as mild in intensity. Vaccine-related serious 
adverse reactions were reported for 0.01% subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX and subjects who 
received placebo.

Data from a clinical trial (n=368) demonstrated that the current refrigerated formulation has a safety 
profile comparable to that of the frozen formulation.

b. Tabulated summary of adverse events

In clinical trials, general safety has been evaluated in more than 57,000 adults vaccinated with 
ZOSTAVAX.
Table 1 presents vaccine-related injection-site and systemic adverse reactions reported at a 
significantly greater incidence in the vaccine group versus the placebo group within 42 days post-
vaccination in the ZOSTAVAX Efficacy and Safety trial (ZEST) study and in the Adverse Event 
Monitoring Substudy of Shingles Prevention Study (SPS).

Additional adverse reactions, spontaneously reported through post-marketing surveillance, are also 
included in Table 1. As these events are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is 
not possible to reliably calculate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to vaccine exposure. 
Consequently, the frequencies of these adverse reactions have been estimated based on the adverse 
events reported in SPS and ZEST (regardless of vaccine relationship assigned by the investigator).

The adverse reactions are assigned frequency categories using the following convention:
Very Common (≥1/10); 
Common (≥1/100 to <1/10); 
Uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100); 
Rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000); 
Very rare (<1/10,000)

 



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Table 1: Adverse Reactions from Clinical Trial Experience and Post-Marketing Surveillance

MedDRA System Organ Class Adverse reaction terms Frequency

Infections and infestations Varicella, Herpes zoster (vaccine strain) Very rare
Blood and lymphatic system 
disorders

Lymphadenopathy (cervical, axillary) Uncommon

Immune system disorders Hypersensitivity reactions including 
anaphylactic reactions

Rare

Nervous system disorders Headache1 Common
Eye Disorders Necrotizing retinitis (patients on 

immunosuppressive therapy)
Very rare

Gastrointestinal disorders Nausea Uncommon
Skin and subcutaneous tissue 
disorders

Rash Common

Musculoskeletal and connective 
tissue disorders

Arthralgia, Myalgia, Pain in extremity1 Common

General disorders and 
administration site conditions

Injection site: Erythema
1,2

, Pain/tenderness
1,2

,

Pruritus
1,2, Swelling

1,2

Injection site: Induration1, Haematoma1, 
Warmth1, Rash, Pyrexia

Injection site urticaria

Very common

Common

Rare
1 Clinical trials experience.
2 Solicited adverse reaction within 5 days post-vaccination.

c. Description of selected adverse reactions

Injection site reactions
Vaccine-related injection-site adverse reactions were significantly greater for subjects vaccinated with 
ZOSTAVAX versus subjects who received placebo. In SPS, the overall incidence of vaccine-related 
injection-site adverse reactions were 48% for ZOSTAVAX and 17% for placebo in subjects 60 years 
of age and older.

In ZEST, the overall incidence of vaccine-related injection site adverse reactions were 63.9% for 
ZOSTAVAX and 14.4% for placebo in subjects 50 to 59 years of age. Most of these adverse reactions 
were reported as mild in intensity.

In other clinical trials evaluating ZOSTAVAX in subjects 50 years of age or older, including a study 
of concomitantly administered inactivated influenza vaccine, a higher rate of injection-site adverse 
experiences of mild-to-moderate intensity was reported among subjects 50-59 years of age compared 
with subjects ≥60 years of age (see section 5.1).

ZOSTAVAX was administered either subcutaneously (SC) or intramuscularly (IM) in subjects 
50 years of age or older (see section 5.1). The general safety profiles of the SC and IM routes were 
otherwise comparable, but injection-site adverse reactions were significantly less frequent in the IM 
group (34%) compared with the SC group (64%).

Herpes zoster/herpes zoster-like rashes and Varicella/varicella-like rashes in clinical trials
In clinical trials the number of herpes zoster/herpes zoster-like rashes within the 42-day post-
vaccination was low in both ZOSTAVAX and placebo groups. The majority of rashes have been rated 
as mild to moderate; no complications from rash have been observed in the clinical setting. Most of 
the reporting rashes that were VZV positive by PCR analysis were associated with wild-type VZV.

 



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In SPS and ZEST, the number of subjects who reported herpes zoster/herpes zoster-like rashes was 
less than 0.2% for ZOSTAVAX and placebo groups, with no significant difference observed between 
the two groups. The number of subjects who reported varicella/varicella-like rashes was less than 
0.7% for ZOSTAVAX and placebo.

The Oka/Merck strain of VZV was not detected from any specimens in SPS or ZEST. VZV was 
detected in one (0.01%) specimen from a ZOSTAVAX recipient reporting a varicella/varicella-like 
rash; however, the virus strain (wild type or Oka/Merck strain) could not be determined. Across all 
other clinical trials, the Oka/Merck strain was identified by PCR analysis from the lesion specimens of 
only two subjects who reported varicella-like rashes (onset on Day 8 and 17).

d. Special populations

Adults with a history of herpes zoster (HZ) prior to vaccination
ZOSTAVAX was administered to subjects 50 years of age or older with a history of herpes zoster 
(HZ) prior to vaccination (see section 5.1). The safety profile was generally similar to that seen in the 
Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy of the SPS. 

Adults on chronic/maintenance systemic corticosteroids
In subjects 60 years of age or older who were receiving chronic/maintenance systemic corticosteroid 
therapy at a daily dose equivalent of 5 to 20 mg of prednisone for at least 2 weeks prior to enrollment, 
and 6 weeks or more following vaccination, the safety profile was generally comparable to that seen in 
the Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy of the SPS (see sections 4.3 and 5.1).

HIV-infected adults with conserved immune function
In a clinical trial, ZOSTAVAX was administered to HIV-infected adults (18 years of age or older, 
CD4+ T cell count ≥ 200 cells/µL) (see section 5.1). The safety profile was generally similar to the 
Adverse Event Monitoring Substudy of the SPS. Adverse events were followed up to Day 42 post 
vaccination and serious adverse events throughout the entire study period (i.e. through Day 180). Of 
the 295 ZOSTAVAX recipients, one case of serious vaccine related maculo-papular rash was reported 
on Day 4 following Dose 1 of ZOSTAVAX (see section 4.3). 

VZV-seronegative adults
Based on limited data from 2 clinical trials that enrolled VZV-seronegative or low seropositive 
subjects (30 years of age or older) receiving live attenuated zoster vaccine, injection site and systemic 
adverse experiences were generally similar to those reported by other subjects who received 
ZOSTAVAX in clinical trials, with 2 of the 27 subjects reporting fever. No subjects reported 
varicella-like or herpes zoster-like rashes. No serious vaccine-related adverse experiences were 
reported.

e. Other studies

Adults receiving additional doses/revaccination 
In a clinical study, adults 60 years of age or older received a second dose of ZOSTAVAX 42 days 
following the initial dose (see section 5.1). The frequency of vaccine-related adverse experiences after 
the second dose of ZOSTAVAX was generally similar to that seen with the first dose.

In another study, ZOSTAVAX was administered as a booster dose to HZ history-negative subjects 
70 years of age or older who had received a first dose approximately 10 years previously, and as a first 
dose to HZ history-negative subjects 70 years of age or older (see section 5.1). The frequency of 
vaccine-related adverse experiences after the booster dose of ZOSTAVAX was generally similar to 
that seen with the first dose.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions
Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It 
allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare 

 



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professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system 
listed in Appendix V.

4.9 Overdose

Administration of a higher than recommended dose of ZOSTAVAX was reported rarely and the 
adverse reaction profile was comparable to that observed with the recommended dose of 
ZOSTAVAX.

5. PHARMACOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic group: Vaccines, Viral Vaccine; ATC code: J07BK02

Mechanism of action
Anyone who has been infected with VZV, including those without a clinical history of varicella, is at 
risk for developing zoster. This risk appears to be causally related to a decline in VZV-specific 
immunity. ZOSTAVAX was shown to boost VZV-specific immunity, which is thought to be the 
mechanism by which it protects against zoster and its complications (See Immunogenicity).

Clinical Efficacy
The protective clinical efficacy of ZOSTAVAX was demonstrated in two large, randomised, placebo 
controlled clinical trials where subjects received ZOSTAVAX subcutaneously (see Tables 2 and 3).

ZOSTAVAX Efficacy and Safety Trial (ZEST) in subjects 50 to 59 years of age:
The ZEST study was a placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial in which 22,439 subjects were 
randomised to receive a single dose of either ZOSTAVAX or placebo and were followed for the 
development of zoster for a median of 1.3 years (range 0 to 2 years). Final determination of zoster 
cases was made by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) [86%], or in the absence of virus detection, as 
determined by a clinical evaluation committee [14%]. ZOSTAVAX significantly decreased the 
incidence of zoster compared to placebo (see Table 2).

Table 2: Efficacy of ZOSTAVAX on zoster incidence compared with placebo in the ZEST trial 
in subjects 50 to 59 years of age*

ZOSTAVAX Placebo Vaccine efficacy
(95% CI)

Number 
of 

subjects

Number 
of 

zoster 
cases

Incidence 
rate of 

zoster per 
1,000 
person 
years

Number 
of 

subjects

Number 
of 

zoster 
cases

Incidence 
rate of 

zoster per 
1,000 
person 
years

11,211 30 2.0 11,228 99 6.6 70%
(54%, 81%)

*The analysis was performed on the intent-to-treat (ITT) population that included all subjects randomised in the ZEST study

Shingles Prevention Study (SPS) in Subjects 60 years of age and older:
The SPS study was a placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial in which 38,546 subjects were 
randomised to receive a single dose of either ZOSTAVAX or placebo and were followed for the 
development of zoster for a median of 3.1 years (range 31 days to 4.9 years).

ZOSTAVAX significantly decreased the incidence of zoster compared with placebo (see Table 3).

 

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Table 3: Efficacy of ZOSTAVAX on zoster incidence compared with placebo in the SPS in 
subjects 60 years of age and older*

Age 
group†

ZOSTAVAX Placebo Vaccine 
efficacy

(95% CI)Number 
of 

subjects

Number 
of zoster 

cases

Incidence 
rate of 

zoster per 
1,000 
person 
years

Number 
of 

subjects

Number 
of zoster 

cases

Incidence 
rate of 

zoster per 
1,000 
person 
years

≥ 60 19,254 315 5.4 19,247 642 11.1 51% (44%, 
58%)

60-69 10,370 122 3.9 10,356 334 10.8 64% (56%, 
71%)

≥ 70 8,884 193 7.2 8,891 308 11.5 38% (25%, 
48%)

70-79 7,621 156 6.7 7,559 261 11.4 41% (28%,
52%)

* The analysis was performed on the Modified Intent-To-Treat (MITT) population that included all subjects randomised in 
the study who were followed for at least 30 days post-vaccination and did not develop an evaluable case of zoster within the 
first 30 days post vaccination
† Age strata at randomisation were 60-69 and ≥ 70 years of age

In the SPS, the reduction in zoster was seen in almost all dermatomes. Ophthalmic zoster occurred in 
35 subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX vs. 69 subjects who received placebo. Impaired vision 
occurred in 2 subjects vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX vs. 9 who received placebo.

ZOSTAVAX significantly decreased the incidence of Post-herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) compared with 
placebo (see Table 4). In subjects who developed zoster, ZOSTAVAX decreased the risk of 
subsequently developing PHN. In the vaccine group, the risk of developing PHN after zoster was 9 % 
(27/315), while in the placebo group it was 13 % (80/642). This effect was more prominent in the 
group of older subjects (≥70 years of age), where the risk of developing PHN after zoster was reduced 
to 10% in the vaccine group vs. 19% for the placebo group.

 



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Table 4: Efficacy of ZOSTAVAX on PHN† incidence compared with placebo in the SPS in 
subjects 60 years of age and older*

Age 
group‡

ZOSTAVAX Placebo Vaccine 
efficacy (95% 

CI)Number 
of 

subjects

Number 
of PHN 
cases

Incidence 
rate of 

PHN per 
1,000 
person 
years

Number of 
subjects

Number 
of PHN 
cases

Incidence 
rate of 

PHN per 
1,000 
person 
years

≥ 60 19,254 27 0.5 19,247 80 1.4 67%§

(48%, 79%)
60-69 10,370 8 0.3 10,356 23 0.7 66%

(20%, 87%)
≥ 70 8,884 19 0.7 8,891 57 2.1 67%

(43%, 81%)
70-79 7,621 12 0.5 7,559 45 2.0 74%

(49%, 87%)
† PHN was defined as zoster-associated pain rated as ≥3 (on a 0-10 scale), persisting or appearing more than 90 days after 
onset of zoster rash using Zoster Brief Pain Inventory (ZBPI).
* The table is based on the Modified Intent-To-Treat (MITT) population that included all subjects randomised in the study 
who were followed for at least 30 days post-vaccination and did not develop an evaluable case of zoster within the first 30 
days post-vaccination.
‡ Age strata at randomisation were 60-69 and ≥70 years of age.
§ Age-adjusted estimate based on the age strata (60-69 and ≥70 years of age) at randomisation.

ZOSTAVAX significantly reduced the zoster pain Burden of Illness (BOI) score (see Table 5).

Table 5: Reduction of the zoster-associated pain by the BOI† score in the SPS in subjects 
60 years of age and older

Age 
group‡

ZOSTAVAX Placebo Vaccine efficacy 
(95% CI)

Number 
of

subjects

Number 
of zoster 

confirmed 
cases

Mean 
BOI 
score

Number 
of

subjects

Number 
of zoster 

confirmed 
cases

Mean 
BOI 
score

≥ 60 19,254 315 2.21 19,247 642 5.68 61% (51%, 69%)
60-69 10,370 122 1.5 10,356 334 4.33 66% (52%, 76%)
≥ 70 8,884 193 3.47 8,891 308 7.78 55% (40%, 67%)
70-79 7,621 156 3.04 7,559 261 7.43 59% (43%, 71%)
† The zoster pain BOI score is a composite score that incorporates the incidence, severity, and duration of acute and chronic 
zoster-associated pain over a 6 month follow-up period.
‡ Age strata at randomisation were 60-69 and ≥70 years of age.

Prevention of HZ cases with severe pain in the entire SPS study population
ZOSTAVAX reduced the incidence of zoster with severe and long-lasting pain (severity-by-duration 
score >600) by 73% (95% CI: [46 to 87%]) compared with placebo (11 vs. 40 cases, respectively). 

Reduction of zoster pain severity-by-duration in vaccinated individuals who developed zoster
With regard to the acute pain (pain between 0-30 days) there was no statistically significant difference 
between the vaccine group and the placebo group. 

However, among vaccinated individuals who developed PHN, ZOSTAVAX significantly reduced 
PHN-associated (chronic) pain compared with placebo. In the period from 90 days after rash onset to 
the end of follow-up, there was a 57% reduction in the severity-by-duration score (average scores of 
347 for ZOSTAVAX and 805 for placebo; p=0.016).

 



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Overall, among vaccinated individuals who developed zoster, ZOSTAVAX significantly reduced 
overall acute and chronic zoster-associated pain compared with placebo. Over the 6-month (acute and 
chronic) follow-up period, there was a 22% reduction (p =0.008) in the severity-by-duration score and 
a 52% (95% CI: [7 to 74%]) reduction (from 6.2% to 3.5%) in the risk of having zoster with severe 
and long-lasting pain (severity-by-duration score of >600).

Zostavax persistence of protection
The persistence of protection following vaccination has been evaluated through longer-term follow-up 
in Short-term Persistence Substudy (STPS) and Long-term Persistence Substudy (LTPS) and supports 
the continued benefit of ZOSTAVAX throughout the follow-up periods studied. The STPS was 
initiated to accrue additional information on the persistence of vaccine efficacy for subjects who 
received ZOSTAVAX in SPS.

Persistence of ZOSTAVAX efficacy was studied 4 to 7 years post-vaccination in the STPS, which 
included 7,320 subjects previously vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX and 6,950 subjects previously 
vaccinated with placebo in the SPS (mean age at enrollment was 73.3 years); and 7 to 10 years post-
vaccination in the Long-term Persistence Substudy (LTPS), which included 6,867 subjects previously 
vaccinated with ZOSTAVAX (mean age at enrollment into the LTPS was 74.5 years). The median 
follow-up was ~1.2 years (range is one day to 2.2 years) and ~3.9 years (range is one week to 
4.75 years) in STPS and LTPS, respectively. During the course of the STPS, placebo recipients were 
offered ZOSTAVAX, at which time they were considered to have completed the STPS. A concurrent 
placebo control was not available in the LTPS; data from prior placebo recipients were used to 
estimate vaccine efficacy.

In the STPS, there were 84 evaluable zoster cases [8.4/1,000 person-years] in the ZOSTAVAX group 
and 95 evaluable cases [14.0/1,000 person-years] in the placebo group. The estimated vaccine efficacy 
during the STPS follow-up period was 40% (95% CI: [18 to 56%]) for zoster incidence, 60% (95% CI: 
[-10 to 87%]) for PHN incidence and 50% (95% CI: [14 to 71%]) for zoster BOI.

In the LTPS, there were 263 evaluable zoster cases reported among 261 patients [10.3/1000 
person-years]. The estimated vaccine efficacy during the LTPS follow-up period was 21% (95% CI: 
[11 to 30%]) for zoster incidence, 35% (95% CI: [9 to 56%]) for PHN incidence and 37% (95% CI: 
[27 to 46%]) for zoster BOI.

Long-term effectiveness study in individuals 50 years of age or older
In a large-scale ongoing US prospective observational cohort study of the long-term effectiveness of 
ZOSTAVAX, individuals 50 years of age or older at the time of vaccination are being followed for the 
occurrence of HZ and PHN using validated endpoints.

In an interim analysis of the 2007 to 2014 study period, out of 1,355,720 study individuals, 392,677 
received ZOSTAVAX. A total of 48,889 confirmed HZ cases and 3,316 confirmed PHN cases (>90 
days of zoster-associated pain) were observed. The results showed that ZOSTAVAX is effective in 
reducing HZ and PHN incidence in vaccinated individuals as compared to an unvaccinated reference 
group.

Vaccine effectiveness (VE) against HZ was evaluated for up to eight years postvaccination. VE 
estimates by age at vaccination and average VE estimates over the first 3 and 5 years postvaccination 
are shown below (see Table 6).

 



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Table 6: VE† of ZOSTAVAX against HZ over the study period and on average over 3 and 
5 years, by age at vaccination. 2007 to 2014

Age at vaccination*

50-59 years 60-69 years 70-79 years 80+ years Among all 
age groups

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE over study 
period‡

2007-2014 60%
(53, 65)

51%
(48, 53)

46%
(43, 49)

47%
(43, 52)

49%
(48, 51)

Average VE§

3-year 
postvaccination

60%
(52, 66)

55%
(52, 57)

50%
(47, 53)

48%
(43, 53)

¶

5-year 
postvaccination

¶
49%

(47, 52)
46%

(43, 48)
44%

(38, 49)
¶

† VE was estimated for the first episode of herpes zoster during follow-up and was calculated as (1-hazards ratio)*100
* Cox models adjusted for calendar time, age, sex, race/ethnic group, healthcare resource utilization (flu vaccination, number 
of weeks with an outpatient visit per year), co-morbid conditions (DxCG score, HCUP risk score), immunocompromise 
status during follow-up
‡ VE over study period is the VE calculated over the full duration of the study (2007-2014) at the time of this interim 
analysis
§ Average VE was calculated as the weighted average of the annual VE estimates over 3 and 5 years, respectively, where the 
weights are the proportion of the overall time period covered
¶ Data not available
Abbreviations: VE denotes vaccine effectiveness; CI confidence interval; DxCG diagnostic cost group; HCUP healthcare 
cost and utilization project

VE against PHN was evaluated for up to eight years postvaccination. VE estimates by age at 
vaccination and average VE estimates over the first 3 and 5 years postvaccination are shown below 
(see Table 7).

Table 7: VE† of ZOSTAVAX against postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) over the study period
and on average over 3 and 5 years, by age at vaccination. 2007 to 2014

Age at vaccination*

50-59 years 60-69 years 70-79 years 80+ years Among all 
age groups

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE % 
(95% CI)

VE over study 
period‡

2007-2014 63%
(11, 85)

71%
(65, 76)

70%
(63, 75)

62%
(50, 71)

69%
(65, 72)

Average VE§

3-year 
postvaccination

98%
(-∞, 100)

74%
(66, 80)

73%
(65, 79)

63%
(49, 73)

¶

5-year 
postvaccination

¶
72%

(65, 77)
69%

(62, 75)
61%

(47, 71)
¶

† VE was estimated for the first episode of herpes zoster during follow-up and was calculated as (1-hazards ratio)*100.

 



13

* Cox models adjusted for calendar time, age, sex, race/ethnic group, healthcare resource utilization (flu vaccination, number 
of weeks with an outpatient visit per year), co-morbid conditions (DxCG score, HCUP risk score), immunocompromise 
status during follow-up
‡ VE over study period is the VE calculated over the full duration of the study (2007-2014) at the time of this interim 
analysis
§ Average VE was calculated as the weighted average of the annual VE estimates over 3 and 5 years, respectively, where the 
weights are the proportion of the overall time period covered
¶ Data not available
Abbreviations: VE denotes vaccine effectiveness; CI confidence interval; DxCG diagnostic cost group; HCUP healthcare 
cost and utilization project

Immunogenicity of ZOSTAVAX
Shingles Prevention Study (SPS)
Within SPS, immune responses to vaccination were evaluated in a subset of the enrolled subjects 
(N=1395). ZOSTAVAX elicited significantly higher VZV-specific immune responses at 6 weeks post-
vaccination compared with placebo. 

ZOSTAVAX Efficacy and Safety Trial (ZEST)
Within ZEST, immune responses to vaccination were evaluated in a random 10% subcohort (n=1,136 
for ZOSTAVAX and n=1,133 for placebo) of the subjects enrolled in the ZEST. ZOSTAVAX elicited
significantly higher VZV-specific immune responses at 6 weeks post-vaccination compared with 
placebo.

When evaluated at 4 weeks post-vaccination, the immunogenicity of the current refrigerator-stable 
formulation was shown to be similar to the immunogenicity of the earlier frozen formulation of 
ZOSTAVAX.

Subjects who received ZOSTAVAX by SC (subcutaneous) or IM (intramuscular) route
In an open-label, randomised, controlled clinical trial, ZOSTAVAX was administered either by SC 
route or by IM route to 353 subjects 50 years of age or older. Subjects with severe thrombocytopenia 
or any other coagulation disorder were excluded. The VZV specific immune responses to 
ZOSTAVAX at Week 4 post-vaccination were comparable whether administered by SC or IM route.

 



14

Concomitant administration
In a double-blind, controlled clinical trial, 762 adults 50 years of age and older were randomised to 
receive a single dose of ZOSTAVAX administered either concomitantly (N=382) or nonconcomitantly 
(N=380) with inactivated split influenza vaccine. The VZV-specific immune responses to both 
vaccines at 4 weeks post-vaccination were similar, whether administered concomitantly or 
nonconcomitantly.

In a double-blind, controlled clinical trial, 473 adults, 60 years of age or older, were randomised to 
receive a single dose of ZOSTAVAX either concomitantly (N=237), or nonconcomitantly (N=236) 
with 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. At four weeks post-vaccination, the 
VZV-specific immune responses following concomitant use were not similar to the VZV-specific 
immune responses following nonconcomitant administration. However in a US effectiveness cohort 
study of 35,025 adults ≥ 60 years old, no increased risk of herpes zoster was observed in individuals 
who received ZOSTAVAX and 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine concomitantly 
(n=16,532) as compared to individuals receiving ZOSTAVAX one month to one year after 23-valent 
pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (n=18,493) in routine practice. The adjusted hazard ratio 
comparing the incidence rate of HZ in the two groups was 1.04 (95% CI, 0.92, 1.16) over a median 
follow-up of 4.7 years. The data do not indicate that concomitant administration alters the 
effectiveness of ZOSTAVAX.

Subjects with a history of herpes zoster (HZ) prior to vaccination
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial, ZOSTAVAX was administered to 
100 subjects 50 years of age or older with a history of herpes zoster prior to vaccination to assess 
immunogenicity and safety (see section 4.8) of ZOSTAVAX. ZOSTAVAX induced a significantly 
higher VZV-specific immune response at 4 weeks post-vaccination, compared with placebo. 
VZV-specific immune responses were generally similar in subjects 50 to 59 compared to subjects 
≥60 years of age.

Adults receiving additional doses/revaccination
The need for, or timing of, a booster dose with ZOSTAVAX has not yet been determined. In an 
open-label study, ZOSTAVAX was administered as: (1) a booster dose to 201 zoster history-negative 
subjects 70 years of age or older who had received a first dose approximately 10 years previously as 
participants in the SPS, and (2) a first dose to 199 zoster history-negative subjects 70 years of age or 
older. The VZV-specific immune responses to vaccine 6 weeks post-vaccination was comparable in 
the booster dose and first dose group.

Subjects on chronic/maintenance systemic corticosteroids
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial, ZOSTAVAX was administered to 
206 subjects 60 years of age or older who were receiving chronic/maintenance systemic corticosteroid 
therapy at a daily dose equivalent of 5 to 20 mg of prednisone for at least 2 weeks prior to enrollment, 
and 6 weeks or more following vaccination to assess the immunogenicity and safety profile of 
ZOSTAVAX. Compared with placebo, ZOSTAVAX induced a higher VZV-specific immune 
response at 6 weeks post-vaccination.

HIV-infected adults with conserved immune function
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial, ZOSTAVAX was administered to 
HIV-infected adults (18 years of age or older; median age 49 years) on appropriate antiretroviral 
therapy with conserved immune function (CD4+ T cell count ≥ 200 cells/µL). Although, ZOSTAVAX 
is indicated as a single dose regimen (see section 4.2), a two-dose regimen was used. 286 subjects 
received two doses and 9 subjects received only one dose. The VZV-specific immune responses 
following Doses 1 and 2 were similar (see section 4.3).

Immunocompromised subjects
The vaccine has not been studied in subjects with impaired immunity.

 



15

The European Medicines Agency has waived the obligation to submit the results of studies with 
ZOSTAVAX in all the subsets of paediatric population (see section 4.2 for information on paediatric 
use).

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties

Not applicable.

5.3 Preclinical safety data

Traditional non-clinical studies were not performed, but there are no non-clinical concerns considered 
relevant to clinical safety beyond data included in other sections of the Summary of Product 
Characteristics (SmPC).

6. PHARMACEUTICAL PARTICULARS

6.1 List of excipients

Powder:
Sucrose
Hydrolysed gelatin
Sodium chloride
Potassium dihydrogen phosphate
Potassium chloride
Monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate
Disodium phosphate
Sodium hydroxide (to adjust pH)
Urea

Solvent:
Water for injections

6.2 Incompatibilities

In the absence of compatibility studies, this medicinal product must not be mixed with other medicinal 
products. 

6.3 Shelf life

18 months. 

After reconstitution, the vaccine should be used immediately. However, in-use stability has been 
demonstrated for 30 minutes when stored at 20 C – 25 C.

6.4 Special precautions for storage

Store and transport refrigerated (2 C – 8 C). 
Do not freeze. 
Store in the original package in order to protect from light. 

For storage conditions after reconstitution of the medicinal product, see section 6.3.

 



16

6.5 Nature and contents of container

ZOSTAVAX with solvent for reconstitution supplied in a vial:
Powder in a vial (glass) with a stopper (butyl rubber) and flip off cap (aluminium) and solvent in a vial 
(glass) with a stopper (chlorobutyl rubber) and flip off cap (aluminium) in a pack size of 1 or 10.

ZOSTAVAX with solvent for reconstitution supplied in a pre-filled syringe:
Powder in a vial (glass) with a stopper (butyl rubber) and flip off cap (aluminium) and solvent in a 
pre-filled syringe (glass) with plunger stopper (chlorobutyl rubber) and tip cap (styrene-butadiene 
rubber) with one or two unattached needles in a pack size of 1, 10 or 20.

Powder in a vial (glass) with a stopper (butyl rubber) and flip off cap (aluminium) and solvent in a 
pre-filled syringe (glass) with plunger stopper (chlorobutyl rubber) and tip cap (styrene-butadiene 
rubber) without needle in pack size of 1, 10 or 20.

Powder in a vial (glass) with a stopper (butyl rubber) and flip off cap (aluminium) and solvent in a 
pre-filled syringe (glass) with plunger stopper (chlorobutyl rubber) and needle shield (natural rubber), 
in a pack size of 1 or 10.

Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling

Avoid contact with disinfectants as they may inactivate the vaccine virus.

To reconstitute the vaccine, use the solvent provided. When reconstituted, ZOSTAVAX is a semi-hazy 
to translucent, off-white to pale yellow liquid.

It is important to use a separate sterile syringe and needle for each patient to prevent transmission of 
infectious agents from one individual to another.

Reconstitution instructions

ZOSTAVAX with solvent for reconstitution supplied in a vial:
Withdraw the entire contents of the solvent vial into a syringe.
Inject all the solvent into the vial of lyophilised vaccine.
Gently agitate to dissolve completely.
Withdraw the entire content of the reconstituted vaccine using the same syringe. Inject the vaccine.

The reconstituted vaccine should be inspected visually for any foreign particulate matter and/or 
abnormal physical appearance prior to administration. In the event of either being observed, discard 
the vaccine.

ZOSTAVAX with solvent for reconstitution supplied in a pre-filled syringe:
If two needles are provided, separate needles should be used for the reconstitution and administration 
of the vaccine.
To reconstitute the vaccine, inject all the solvent in the pre-filled syringe into the vial of lyophilised 
vaccine and gently agitate to mix thoroughly. 
Withdraw the entire contents of the reconstituted vaccine using the same syringe. Inject the vaccine.
One or 2 separate needles may be available in the secondary packaging of the presentation containing 
the pre-filled syringe without attached needle.
The needle should be pushed into the extremity of the syringe and rotated a quarter of a turn (90) to 
secure the connection.

The reconstituted vaccine should be inspected visually for any foreign particulate matter and/or 
abnormal physical appearance prior to administration. In the event of either being observed, discard 
the vaccine.

 



17

It is recommended that the vaccine be administered immediately after reconstitution, to 
minimize loss of potency. Discard reconstituted vaccine if it is not used within 30 minutes.

Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local 
requirements.

7. MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

MSD VACCINS
162 avenue Jean Jaurès
69007 Lyon
France

8. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S)

EU/1/06/341/001
EU/1/06/341/002
EU/1/06/341/003
EU/1/06/341/004
EU/1/06/341/005
EU/1/06/341/006
EU/1/06/341/007
EU/1/06/341/008
EU/1/06/341/009
EU/1/06/341/010
EU/1/06/341/011
EU/1/06/341/012
EU/1/06/341/013

9. DATE OF FIRST AUTHORISATION/RENEWAL OF THE AUTHORISATION

Date of first authorisation: 19 May 2006 
Date of latest renewal: 11 February 2016

10. DATE OF REVISION OF THE TEXT

Detailed information on this medicinal product is available on the website of the European Medicines 
Agency http://www.ema.europa.eu.

 



18

ANNEX II

A. MANUFACTURERS OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE 
SUBSTANCES AND MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE 
FOR BATCH RELEASE

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY 
AND USE

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE 
MARKETING AUTHORISATION

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO 
THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL 
PRODUCT

 



19

A. MANUFACTURERS OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCES AND 
MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE

Name and address of the manufacturers of the biological active substances

Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. 
Sumneytown Pike 
West Point 
Pennsylvania 19486
U.S.A.

Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp.
5325 Old Oxford Road
Durham
North Carolina 27712
U.S.A

Name and address of the manufacturer responsible for batch release

Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V.
Waarderweg 39
2031 BN Haarlem
The Netherlands

B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE

Medicinal product subject to medical prescription.

 Official batch release

In accordance with Article 114 of Directive 2001/83/EC, the official batch release will be undertaken 
by a state laboratory or a laboratory designated for that purpose.

C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING 
AUTHORISATION

 Periodic Safety Update Reports

The requirements for submission of periodic safety update reports for this medicinal products are set 
out in the list of Union reference dates (EURD list) provided for under Article 107c(7) of Directive 
2001/83/EC and any subsequent updates published on the European medicines web-portal.

D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND 
EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

 Risk Management Plan (RMP)

The MAH shall perform the required pharmacovigilance activities and interventions detailed in the 
agreed RMP presented in Module 1.8.2 of the Marketing Authorisation and any agreed subsequent 
updates of the RMP.

An updated RMP should be submitted:
 At the request of the European Medicines Agency;

 



20

 Whenever the risk management system is modified, especially as the result of new information 
being received that may lead to a significant change to the benefit/risk profile or as the result of 
an important (pharmacovigilance or risk minimisation) milestone being reached.

 



21

ANNEX III

LABELLING AND PACKAGE LEAFLET

 



22

A. LABELLING

 



23

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

ZOSTAVAX - Powder in vial and solvent in vial - Pack of 1, 10

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection
shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S)

After reconstitution, 1 dose (0.65 mL) contains:
Varicella-zoster virus, Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) ≥19,400 PFU

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS

Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, urea, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium 
chloride, monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide.

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS

Powder and solvent for suspension for injection
1 vial (powder) + 1 vial (solvent)
10 vials (powder) + 10 vials (solvent)

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Subcutaneous or intramuscular use.
Read the package leaflet before use.

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 
OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY

8. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS

Store and transport refrigerated. Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton to protect from light.

After reconstitution, use immediately or within 30 minutes if stored at 20°C-25°C. 

 



24

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 
OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

MSD VACCINS
162 avenue Jean Jaurès
69007 Lyon
France

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

EU/1/06/341/001 – pack of 1
EU/1/06/341/002 – pack of 10

13. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE

Justification for not including Braille accepted.

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included.

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA

PC:
SN: 
NN: 

 



25

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS 

VIAL OF POWDER

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

ZOSTAVAX powder for injection
SC/IM

2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION

3. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

4. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT

1 dose 

6. OTHER

MSD VACCINS

 



26

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS

VIAL OF SOLVENT

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Solvent for ZOSTAVAX

2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION

3. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

4. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT

1 dose

6. OTHER

MSD VACCINS

 



27

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

ZOSTAVAX - Powder in vial and solvent in pre-filled syringe with attached needle  Pack of 1, 
10

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live) 

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S)

After reconstitution, 1 dose (0.65 mL) contains:
Varicella-zoster virus, Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) ≥19,400 PFU

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS

Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, urea, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium 
chloride, monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide.

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS

Powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
1 vial (powder) + 1 pre-filled syringe with needle (solvent)
10 vials (powder) + 10 pre-filled syringes with needle (solvent)

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Subcutaneous or intramuscular use.
Read the package leaflet before use.

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 
OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY

8. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS

Store and transport refrigerated. Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton to protect from light.

 



28

After reconstitution, use immediately or within 30 minutes if stored at 20°C-25°C.

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 
OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

MSD VACCINS
162 avenue Jean Jaurès
69007 Lyon
France

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

EU/1/06/341/003 – pack of 1
EU/1/06/341/004 – pack of 10

13. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE

Justification for not including Braille accepted.

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included.

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA

PC:
SN: 
NN: 

 



29

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

ZOSTAVAX - Powder in vial and solvent in pre-filled syringe without needle - Pack of 1, 10, 20

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S)

After reconstitution, 1dose (0.65 mL) contains:
Varicella-zoster virus, Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) ≥19,400 PFU

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS

Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, urea, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium 
chloride, monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide.

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS

Powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
1 vial (powder) + 1 pre-filled syringe without needle (solvent)
10 vials (powder) + 10 pre-filled syringes without needle (solvent)
20 vials (powder) + 20 pre-filled syringes without needle (solvent)

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Subcutaneous or intramuscular use.
Read the package leaflet before use.

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 
OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY

8. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS

Store and transport refrigerated. Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton to protect from light.

 



30

After reconstitution, use immediately or within 30 minutes if stored at 20°C-25°C. 

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 
OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

MSD VACCINS
162 avenue Jean Jaurès
69007 Lyon
France

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

EU/1/06/341/005 – pack of 1
EU/1/06/341/006 – pack of 10
EU/1/06/341/007 – pack of 20

13. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE

Justification for not including Braille accepted.

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included.

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA

PC:
SN: 
NN: 

 



31

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

ZOSTAVAX - Powder in vial and solvent in pre-filled syringe with one unattached needle - Pack 
of 1, 10, 20

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S)

After reconstitution, 1dose (0.65 mL) contains:
Varicella-zoster virus Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) ≥19,400 PFU

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS

Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, urea, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium 
chloride, monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide.

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS

Powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
1 vial (powder) + 1 pre-filled syringe (solvent) + 1 needle
10 vials (powder) + 10 pre-filled syringes (solvent) + 10 needles
20 vials (powder) + 20 pre-filled syringes (solvent) + 20 needles

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Subcutaneous or intramuscular use.
Read the package leaflet before use.

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 
OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY

8. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS

Store and transport refrigerated. Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton to protect from light.

 



32

After reconstitution, use immediately or within 30 minutes if stored at 20°C-25°C.

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 
OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

MSD VACCINS
162 avenue Jean Jaurès
69007 Lyon
France

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

EU/1/06/341/008 - pack of 1
EU/1/06/341/009 - pack of 10
EU/1/06/341/010 - pack of 20

13. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE

Justification for not including Braille accepted.

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included.

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA

PC:
SN: 
NN: 

 



33

PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON THE OUTER PACKAGING 

ZOSTAVAX - Powder in vial and solvent in pre-filled syringe with 2 unattached needles - Pack 
of 1, 10, 20

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT

ZOSTAVAX powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

2. STATEMENT OF ACTIVE SUBSTANCE(S)

After reconstitution, 1 dose (0.65 mL) contains:
Varicella-zoster virus Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) ≥19,400 PFU

3. LIST OF EXCIPIENTS

Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, urea, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium 
chloride, monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide.

4. PHARMACEUTICAL FORM AND CONTENTS

Powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe
1 vial (powder) + 1 pre-filled syringe (solvent) + 2 needles
10 vials (powder) + 10 pre-filled syringes (solvent) + 20 needles
20 vials (powder) + 20 pre-filled syringes (solvent) + 40 needles

5. METHOD AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Subcutaneous or intramuscular use.
Read the package leaflet before use.

6. SPECIAL WARNING THAT THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT MUST BE STORED OUT 
OF THE SIGHT AND REACH OF CHILDREN

Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

7. OTHER SPECIAL WARNING(S), IF NECESSARY

8. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

9. SPECIAL STORAGE CONDITIONS

Store and transport refrigerated. Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton to protect from light.

 



34

After reconstitution, use immediately or within 30 minutes if stored at 20°C-25°C.

10. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS FOR DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICINAL PRODUCTS 
OR WASTE MATERIALS DERIVED FROM SUCH MEDICINAL PRODUCTS, IF 
APPROPRIATE

11. NAME AND ADDRESS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION HOLDER

MSD VACCINS
162 avenue Jean Jaurès
69007 Lyon
France

12. MARKETING AUTHORISATION NUMBER(S) 

EU/1/06/341/011 – pack of 1
EU/1/06/341/012 – pack of 10
EU/1/06/341/013– pack of 20

13. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

14. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION FOR SUPPLY

15. INSTRUCTIONS ON USE

16. INFORMATION IN BRAILLE

Justification for not including Braille accepted.

17. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER – 2D BARCODE

2D barcode carrying the unique identifier included.

18. UNIQUE IDENTIFIER - HUMAN READABLE DATA

PC:
SN: 
NN: 

 



35

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS

VIAL OF POWDER

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

ZOSTAVAX powder for injection
SC/IM

2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION

3. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

4. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT

1 dose 

6. OTHER

MSD VACCINS

 



36

MINIMUM PARTICULARS TO APPEAR ON SMALL IMMEDIATE PACKAGING UNITS

PRE-FILLED SYRINGE OF SOLVENT

1. NAME OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT AND ROUTE(S) OF ADMINISTRATION

Solvent for ZOSTAVAX

2. METHOD OF ADMINISTRATION

3. EXPIRY DATE

EXP

4. BATCH NUMBER

Lot

5. CONTENTS BY WEIGHT, BY VOLUME OR BY UNIT

1 dose 

6. OTHER

MSD VACCINS

 



37

B. PACKAGE LEAFLET

 



38

Package Leaflet: Information for the user

ZOSTAVAX
Powder and solvent for suspension for injection

shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you are vaccinated because it contains important 
information for you.
- Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
- If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- This vaccine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others.
- If you get any of the side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible 

side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

What is in this leaflet

1. What ZOSTAVAX is and what it is used for
2. What you need to know before you receive ZOSTAVAX
3. How to use ZOSTAVAX
4. Possible side effects
5. How to store ZOSTAVAX
6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. What ZOSTAVAX is and what it is used for

ZOSTAVAX is a vaccine used to prevent shingles (zoster) and zoster-related post-herpetic neuralgia 
(PHN), the long-lasting nerve pain that follows shingles.

ZOSTAVAX is used to vaccinate individuals 50 years of age or older.

ZOSTAVAX cannot be used to treat existing shingles or the pain associated with existing shingles.

Disease information on shingles:

What is shingles?

Shingles is a painful, blistering rash. It usually occurs in one part of the body and can last for several 
weeks. It may lead to severe and long-lasting pain and scarring. Less commonly, bacterial skin 
infections, weakness, muscle paralysis, loss of hearing or vision can occur. Shingles is caused by the 
same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have had chickenpox, the virus that caused it stays in 
your body in nerve cells. Sometimes, after many years, the virus becomes active again and causes 
shingles. 

What is PHN?

After the shingles blisters heal, pain can last for months or years and may be severe. This long-lasting 
nerve pain is called post-herpetic neuralgia or PHN. 

2. What you need to know before you receive ZOSTAVAX

Do not receive ZOSTAVAX

 if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to any of the components of this vaccine (including 
neomycin or any of the other ingredients listed in section 6)

 if you have a blood disorder or any type of cancer that weakens your immune system

 



39

 if you have been told by your doctor that you have a weakened immune system as a result of a 
disease, medicines, or other treatment

 if you have active untreated tuberculosis
 if you are pregnant (in addition, pregnancy should be avoided for 1 month after vaccination, see 

Pregnancy and breast-feeding).

Warnings and precautions

If you have experienced any of the following, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before receiving 
ZOSTAVAX:
 if you have or have had any medical problems or any allergies
 if you have a fever
 if you have HIV infection

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients (including 
neomycin or any of the ingredients listed under section 6) before you receive this vaccine.

As with many vaccines, ZOSTAVAX may not completely protect all persons who are vaccinated.

If you have a blood clotting disorder or low levels of platelets, the vaccine should be given under the 
skin because bleeding may occur following administration into the muscle.

Other medicines and ZOSTAVAX

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines
or vaccines.

ZOSTAVAX can be administered at the same time as inactivated influenza vaccine. The two vaccines 
should be given as separate injections at different body sites.

For information about the administration of ZOSTAVAX and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 
at the same time, talk to your doctor or health care provider.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

ZOSTAVAX should not be given to pregnant women. Women of child-bearing potential should take 
the necessary precautions to avoid pregnancy for 1 month following vaccination. 

Inform your doctor if you are breast-feeding or intending to breast-feed. Your doctor will decide if 
ZOSTAVAX should be given.

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask 
your doctor or pharmacist for advice before receiving this vaccine.

Driving and using machines

There is no information to suggest that ZOSTAVAX affects the ability to drive or use machines.

ZOSTAVAX contains sodium

ZOSTAVAX contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per dose, i.e. essentially ‘sodium-free'.

3. How to use ZOSTAVAX

ZOSTAVAX should be injected under the skin or into the muscle, preferably in the upper arm.

 



40

If you have a blood clotting disorder or low levels of platelets in your blood, the injection will be 
given under the skin.

ZOSTAVAX is given as a single dose.

Reconstitution instructions intended for healthcare professionals are included at the end of the 
leaflet.

4. Possible side effects

Like all vaccines and medicines, this vaccine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets 
them.

Rarely (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people), allergic reactions may occur. Some of these reactions may 
be serious and may include difficulty in breathing or swallowing. If you have an allergic reaction, call 
your doctor right away.

The following side effects have been observed:
 Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): Redness, pain, swelling and itching at the 

injection site* 
 Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Warmth, bruising, hard lump, and rash at the 

injection site*; headache*; pain in the arm or leg*; joint pain, muscle pain; fever; rash 
 Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Nausea; swollen gland (neck, armpit)
 Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): Hives at the injection site
 Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people): Varicella (chicken pox); shingles; damage of 

retina caused by inflammation resulting in changes in sight (in patients under 
immunosuppressive therapy).

*These adverse reactions have been observed in clinical trials and through post-marketing 
surveillance; most of those observed in clinical trials were reported as mild in intensity.

Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects 
not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system 
listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of 
this vaccine.

5. How to store ZOSTAVAX

Keep this vaccine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use this vaccine after the expiry date which is stated on the outer carton after EXP. The expiry 
date refers to the last day of that month.

Store and transport refrigerated (2C - 8C). Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton in order to 
protect from light.

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 
throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

 

http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Template_or_form/2013/03/WC500139752.doc


41

6. Contents of the pack and other information 

What ZOSTAVAX contains

After reconstitution, 1 dose (0.65 mL) contains:
The active substance is: 
Varicella-zoster virus1, Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) not less than 19,400 PFU (plaque-forming 
units).
1 Produced in human diploid (MRC-5) cells

The other ingredients are:

Powder
Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium chloride, 
monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide (to adjust pH), and 
urea.

Solvent
Water for injections

What ZOSTAVAX looks like and contents of the pack

The vaccine is a powder for suspension for injection contained in a single-dose vial, which should be 
reconstituted with the solvent provided with the vial of powder. 

The solvent is a clear and colourless liquid. Before mixing with the solvent, the powder is a white to 
off-white compact crystalline plug.

ZOSTAVAX is available in packs of 1 or 10. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer

Marketing Authorisation Holder:  MSD VACCINS, 162 avenue Jean Jaurès, 69007 Lyon, France

Manufacturer: Merck Sharp and Dohme, B.V., Waarderweg, 39, 2031 BN Haarlem, The Netherlands

For any information about this medicinal product, please contact the local representative of the 
Marketing Authorisation Holder.

België/Belgique/Belgien
MSD Belgium BVBA/SPRL

Tél/Tel: +32(0)27766211
dpoc_belux@merck.com

Lietuva
UAB Merck Sharp & Dohme
Tel.: +370.5.2780.247
msd_lietuva@merck.com

България
Мерк Шарп и Доум България ЕООД, 
тел.: + 359 2 819 3737
info-msdbg@merck.com

Luxembourg/Luxemburg
MSD Belgium BVBA/SPRL

Tél/Tel: +32(0)27766211
dpoc_belux@merck.com

Česká republika
Merck Sharp & Dohme s.r.o. 
Tel.: +420 233 010 111
dpoc_czechslovak@merck.com

Magyarország
MSD Pharma Hungary Kft.
Tel.: + 36.1.888.5300
hungary_msd@merck.com

 

mailto:hungary_msd@merck.com
mailto:info-msdbg@merck.com
mailto:msd_lietuva@merck.com


42

Danmark
MSD Danmark ApS
Tlf: + 45 4482 4000
dkmail@merck.com

Malta
Merck Sharp & Dohme Cyprus Limited.
Tel: 8007 4433 (+356 99917558)
malta_info@merck.com

Deutschland
MSD SHARP & DOHME GMBH
Tel: 0800 673 673 673 (+49 (0) 89 4561 2612)
e-mail@msd.de

Nederland
Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V.
Tel: 0800 9999000 (+31 23 5153153)
medicalinfo.nl@merck.com

Eesti
Merck Sharp & Dohme OÜ, 
Tel: +372.614.4200
msdeesti@merck.com

Norge
MSD (Norge) AS
Tlf: +47 32 20 73 00
msdnorge@msd.no

Ελλάδα
MSD Α.Φ.Β.Ε.Ε.
Τηλ: +30 210 98 97 300
dpoc_greece@merck.com

Österreich
Merck Sharp & Dohme Ges.m.b.H.
Tel: +43 (0) 1 26 044
msd-medizin@merck.com

España
Merck Sharp & Dohme de España, S.A.
Tel: +34 91 321 06 00
msd_info@merck.com

Polska
MSD Polska Sp. z o.o.
Tel.: +48.22.549.51.00
msdpolska@merck.com

France
MSD VACCINS
Tél: +33 (0)1 80 46 40 40
information.medicale@msd.com

Portugal
Merck Sharp & Dohme, Lda
Tel: +351 21 4465700
inform_pt@merck.com

Hrvatska
Merck Sharp & Dohme d.o.o.
Tel: +385 1 66 11 333
croatia_info@merck.com

România
Merck Sharp & Dohme Romania S.R.L
Tel: + 4021 529 29 00
msdromania@merck.com

Ireland
Merck Sharp & Dohme Ireland (Human Health) 
Limited
Tel: +353 (0)1 2998700
medinfo_ireland@merck.com

Slovenija
Merck Sharp & Dohme, inovativna zdravila d.o.o.
Tel: +386.1.520.4201
msd.slovenia@merck.com

Ísland
Vistor hf.
Sími: + 354 535 7000

Slovenská republika
Merck Sharp & Dohme, s. r. o
Tel: +421 2 58282010
dpoc_czechslovak@merck.com

Italia
MSD Italia S.r.l. 
Tel: +39 06 361911
medicalinformation.it@merck.com

Suomi/Finland
MSD Finland Oy
Puh/Tel: +358 (0)9 804 650
info@msd.fi

Κύπρος
Merck Sharp & Dohme Cyprus Limited
Τηλ:  800 00 673 (+357 22866700)
cyprus_info@merck.com

Sverige
Merck Sharp & Dohme (Sweden) AB
Tel: +46 77 5700488
medicinskinfo@merck.com

 

mailto:cyprus_info@merck.com
mailto:medicalinformation.it@merck.com
mailto:dpoc_czechslovak@merck.com
mailto:msd.slovenia@merck.com
mailto:medinfo_ireland@merck.com
mailto:msdromania@merck.com
mailto:croatia_info@merck.com
mailto:msdpolska@merck.com
mailto:msd_info@merck.com
mailto:malta_info@merck.com


43

Latvija
SIA Merck Sharp & Dohme Latvija
Tel: +371.67364.224
msd_lv@merck.com

United Kingdom
Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited
Tel: +44 (0) 1992 467272
medicalinformationuk@merck.com

This leaflet was last revised in:

Other sources of information

Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency website:
http://www.ema.europa.eu.

The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only:

Reconstitution instructions

The solvent is a clear and colourless liquid. Before mixing with the solvent, the powder is a white to 
off-white compact crystalline plug. When completely reconstituted, the vaccine is a semi-hazy to 
translucent, off-white to pale yellow liquid. 

Withdraw the entire volume of solvent into a syringe. Inject the entire content of the syringe into the 
vial containing the powder. Gently agitate to dissolve completely. Withdraw the entire content of the 
reconstituted vaccine vial using the same syringe. Inject the vaccine.

It is recommended that the vaccine be administered immediately after reconstitution to minimise loss 
of potency. Discard if reconstituted vaccine is not used within 30 minutes.

The reconstituted vaccine should be inspected visually for any foreign particulate matter and/or 
abnormal physical appearance prior to administration. In the event of either being observed, discard 
the vaccine.

Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

See also section 3. How to use ZOSTAVAX.

 



44

Package Leaflet: Information for the user

ZOSTAVAX
Powder and solvent for suspension for injection in a pre-filled syringe

shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine (live)

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you are vaccinated because it contains important 
information for you.
- Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
- If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
- This vaccine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others.
- If you get any of the side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible 

side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

What is in this leaflet

1. What ZOSTAVAX is and what it is used for
2. What you need to know before you receive ZOSTAVAX
3. How to use ZOSTAVAX
4. Possible side effects
5. How to store ZOSTAVAX
6. Contents of the pack and other information

1. What ZOSTAVAX is and what it is used for

ZOSTAVAX is a vaccine used to prevent shingles (zoster) and zoster-related post-herpetic neuralgia 
(PHN), the long-lasting nerve pain that follows shingles.

ZOSTAVAX is used to vaccinate individuals 50 years of age or older.

ZOSTAVAX cannot be used to treat existing shingles or the pain associated with existing shingles.

Disease information on shingles:

What is shingles?

Shingles is a painful, blistering rash. It usually occurs in one part of the body and can last for several 
weeks. It may lead to severe and long-lasting pain and scarring. Less commonly, bacterial skin 
infections, weakness, muscle paralysis, loss of hearing or vision can occur. Shingles is caused by the 
same virus that causes chickenpox. After you have had chickenpox, the virus that caused it stays in 
your body in nerve cells. Sometimes, after many years, the virus becomes active again and causes 
shingles. 

What is PHN?

After the shingles blisters heal, pain can last for months or years and may be severe. This long-lasting 
nerve pain is called post-herpetic neuralgia or PHN. 

2. What you need to know before you receive ZOSTAVAX

Do not receive ZOSTAVAX

 if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to any of the components of this vaccine (including 
neomycin or any of the other ingredients listed in section 6)

 if you have a blood disorder or any type of cancer that weakens your immune system

 



45

 if you have been told by your doctor that you have a weakened immune system as a result of a 
disease, medicines, or other treatment

 if you have active untreated tuberculosis
 if you are pregnant (in addition, pregnancy should be avoided for 1 month after vaccination, see

Pregnancy and breast-feeding).

Warnings and precautions

If you have experienced any of the following, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before receiving
ZOSTAVAX:
 if you have or have had any medical problems or any allergies
 if you have a fever
 if you have HIV infection

Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients (including 
neomycin or any of the ingredients listed under section 6) before you receive this vaccine.

As with many vaccines, ZOSTAVAX may not completely protect all persons who are vaccinated.

If you have a blood clotting disorder or low levels of platelets, the vaccine should be given under the 
skin because bleeding may occur following administration into the muscle.

Other medicines and ZOSTAVAX

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines
or vaccines.

ZOSTAVAX can be administered at the same time as inactivated influenza vaccine. The two vaccines 
should be given as separate injections at different body sites.

For information about the administration of ZOSTAVAX and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 
at the same time, talk to your doctor or health care provider.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

ZOSTAVAX should not be given to pregnant women. Women of child-bearing age should take the 
necessary precautions to avoid pregnancy for 1 month following vaccination. 

Inform your doctor if you are breast-feeding or intending to breast-feed. Your doctor will decide if 
ZOSTAVAX should be given.

If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, ask 
your doctor or pharmacist for advice before receiving this vaccine.

Driving and using machines

There is no information to suggest that ZOSTAVAX affects the ability to drive or use machines.

ZOSTAVAX contains sodium

ZOSTAVAX contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per dose, i.e. essentially ‘sodium-free'.

3. How to use ZOSTAVAX

ZOSTAVAX should be injected under the skin or into the muscle, preferably in the upper arm.

 



46

If you have a blood clotting disorder or low levels of platelets in your blood, the injection will be 
given under the skin.

ZOSTAVAX is given as a single dose.

Reconstitution instructions intended for healthcare professionals are included at the end of the 
leaflet.

4. Possible side effects

Like all vaccines and medicines, this vaccine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets 
them.

Rarely (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people), allergic reactions may occur. Some of these reactions may 
be serious and may include difficulty in breathing or swallowing. If you have an allergic reaction, call 
your doctor right away.

The following side effects have been observed:
 Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people): Redness, pain, swelling and itching at the 

injection site* 
 Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Warmth, bruising, hard lump, and rash at the 

injection site*; headache*; pain in the arm or leg*; joint pain, muscle pain; fever; rash 
 Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Nausea; swollen gland (neck, armpit)
 Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): Hives at the injection site
 Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people): Varicella (chicken pox); shingles; damage of 

retina caused by inflammation resulting in changes in sight (in patients under 
immunosuppressive therapy).

*These adverse reactions have been observed in clinical trials and through post-marketing 
surveillance; most of those observed in clinical trials were reported as mild in intensity.

Reporting of side effects
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects 
not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the national reporting system 
listed in Appendix V. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of 
this vaccine.

5. How to store ZOSTAVAX

Keep this vaccine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use this vaccine after the expiry date which is stated on the outer carton after EXP. The expiry 
date refers to the last day of that month.

Store and transport refrigerated (2C - 8C). Do not freeze. Keep the vial in the outer carton in order to 
protect from light.

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to 
throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

 

http://www.ema.europa.eu/docs/en_GB/document_library/Template_or_form/2013/03/WC500139752.doc


47

6. Contents of the pack and other information

What ZOSTAVAX contains

After reconstitution, 1 dose (0.65 mL) contains:
The active substance is: 
Varicella-zoster virus1, Oka/Merck strain, (live, attenuated) not less than 19,400 PFU (plaque-forming 
units).
1Produced in human diploid (MRC-5) cells

The other ingredients are:

Powder
Sucrose, hydrolysed gelatin, sodium chloride, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassium chloride, 
monosodium L-glutamate monohydrate, disodium phosphate, sodium hydroxide (to adjust pH), and 
urea.

Solvent
Water for injections

What ZOSTAVAX looks like and contents of the pack

The vaccine is a powder for suspension for injection contained in a single-dose vial, which should be 
reconstituted with the solvent provided with the vial of powder. 

The solvent is a clear and colourless liquid. Before mixing with the solvent, the powder is a white to 
off-white compact crystalline plug. 
One pack of ZOSTAVAX contains a vial and a pre-filled syringe with or without attached needles. 
One or 2 separate needles may be available in the secondary packaging of the presentation containing 
the pre-filled syringe without the attached needle
ZOSTAVAX is available in packs of 1, 10 or 20 with or without needles. Not all pack sizes may be 
marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer

Marketing Authorisation Holder:  MSD VACCINS, 162 avenue Jean Jaurès, 69007 Lyon, France

Manufacturer: Merck Sharp and Dohme, B.V., Waarderweg, 39, 2031 BN Haarlem, The Netherlands

For any information about this medicinal product, please contact the local representative of the 
Marketing Authorisation Holder.

België/Belgique/Belgien
MSD Belgium BVBA/SPRL

Tél/Tel: +32(0)27766211
dpoc_belux@merck.com

Lietuva
UAB Merck Sharp & Dohme
Tel.: +370.5.2780.247
msd_lietuva@merck.com

България
Мерк Шарп и Доум България ЕООД, 
тел.: + 359 2 819 3737
info-msdbg@merck.com

Luxembourg/Luxemburg
MSD Belgium BVBA/SPRL

Tél/Tel: +32(0)27766211
dpoc_belux@merck.com

Česká republika
Merck Sharp & Dohme s.r.o. 
Tel.: +420 233 010 111
dpoc_czechslovak@merck.com

Magyarország
MSD Pharma Hungary Kft.
Tel.: + 36.1.888.5300
hungary_msd@merck.com

 

mailto:hungary_msd@merck.com
mailto:info-msdbg@merck.com
mailto:msd_lietuva@merck.com


48

Danmark
MSD Danmark ApS
Tlf: + 45 4482 4000
dkmail@merck.com

Malta
Merck Sharp & Dohme Cyprus Limited.
Tel: 8007 4433 (+356 99917558)
malta_info@merck.com

Deutschland
MSD SHARP & DOHME GMBH
Tel: 0800 673 673 673 (+49 (0) 89 4561 2612)
e-mail@msd.de

Nederland
Merck Sharp & Dohme B.V.
Tel: 0800 9999000 (+31 23 5153153)
medicalinfo.nl@merck.com

Eesti
Merck Sharp & Dohme OÜ, 
Tel: +372.614.4200
msdeesti@merck.com

Norge
MSD (Norge) AS
Tlf: +47 32 20 73 00
msdnorge@msd.no

Ελλάδα
MSD Α.Φ.Β.Ε.Ε.
Τηλ: +30 210 98 97 300
dpoc_greece@merck.com

Österreich
Merck Sharp & Dohme Ges.m.b.H.
Tel: +43 (0) 1 26 044
msd-medizin@merck.com

España
Merck Sharp & Dohme de España, S.A.
Tel: +34 91 321 06 00
msd_info@merck.com

Polska
MSD Polska Sp. z o.o.
Tel.: +48.22.549.51.00
msdpolska@merck.com

France
MSD VACCINS
Tél: +33 (0)1 80 46 40 40
information.medicale@msd.com

Portugal
Merck Sharp & Dohme, Lda
Tel: +351 21 4465700
inform_pt@merck.com

Hrvatska
Merck Sharp & Dohme d.o.o.
Tel: +385 1 66 11 333
croatia_info@merck.com

România
Merck Sharp & Dohme Romania S.R.L
Tel: + 4021 529 29 00
msdromania@merck.com

Ireland
Merck Sharp & Dohme Ireland (Human Health) 
Limited
Tel: +353 (0)1 2998700
medinfo_ireland@merck.com

Slovenija
Merck Sharp & Dohme, inovativna zdravila d.o.o.
Tel: +386.1.520.4201
msd.slovenia@merck.com

Ísland
Vistor hf.
Sími: + 354 535 7000

Slovenská republika
Merck Sharp & Dohme, s. r. o
Tel: +421 2 58282010
dpoc_czechslovak@merck.com

Italia
MSD Italia S.r.l. 
Tel: +39 06 361911
medicalinformation.it@merck.com

Suomi/Finland
MSD Finland Oy
Puh/Tel: +358 (0)9 804 650
info@msd.fi

Κύπρος
Merck Sharp & Dohme Cyprus Limited
Τηλ:  800 00 673 (+357 22866700)
cyprus_info@merck.com

Sverige
Merck Sharp & Dohme (Sweden) AB
Tel: +46 77 5700488
medicinskinfo@merck.com

 

mailto:cyprus_info@merck.com
mailto:medicalinformation.it@merck.com
mailto:dpoc_czechslovak@merck.com
mailto:msd.slovenia@merck.com
mailto:medinfo_ireland@merck.com
mailto:msdromania@merck.com
mailto:croatia_info@merck.com
mailto:msdpolska@merck.com
mailto:msd_info@merck.com
mailto:malta_info@merck.com


49

Latvija
SIA Merck Sharp & Dohme Latvija
Tel: +371.67364.224
msd_lv@merck.com

United Kingdom
Merck Sharp & Dohme Limited
Tel: +44 (0) 1992 467272
medicalinformationuk@merck.com

This leaflet was last revised in:

Other sources of information

Detailed information on this medicine is available on the European Medicines Agency website: 
http://www.ema.europa.eu.

The following information is intended for healthcare professionals only:

Reconstitution instructions

The solvent is a clear and colourless liquid. Before mixing with the solvent, the powder is a white to 
off-white compact crystalline plug. When completely reconstituted, the vaccine is a semi-hazy to 
translucent, off-white to pale yellow liquid. 

Inject the entire content of the pre-filled syringe into the vial containing the powder. Gently agitate to 
dissolve completely. Withdraw the entire content of the reconstituted vaccine using the same syringe.
Inject the vaccine. One or 2 separate needles may be available in the packaging of the presentation 
containing the pre-filled syringe without attached needle. The needle should be pushed into the 
extremity of the syringe and rotated a quarter of a turn (90) to secure the connection.

It is recommended that the vaccine be administered immediately after reconstitution to minimise loss 
of potency. Discard if reconstituted vaccine is not used within 30 minutes.

The reconstituted vaccine should be inspected visually for any foreign particulate matter and/or 
abnormal physical appearance prior to administration. In the event of either being observed, discard 
the vaccine.

Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

See also section 3. How to use ZOSTAVAX.

 


	SUMMARY OF PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS
	A. MANUFACTURERS OF THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVE SUBSTANCES AND MANUFACTURER RESPONSIBLE FOR BATCH RELEASE
	B. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS REGARDING SUPPLY AND USE
	C. OTHER CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF THE MARKETING AUTHORISATION
	D. CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS WITH REGARD TO THE SAFE AND EFFECTIVE USE OF THE MEDICINAL PRODUCT
	A. LABELLING
	B. PACKAGE LEAFLET