provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content

Novavax

Used for COVID-19
Used for COVID-19

The Novavax vaccine is a recombinant vaccine that's used to prevent infection from the virus that causes COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) and is available in the U.S. The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine has Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA for people aged 12 years and older. This vaccine is given as an injection in the muscle by a healthcare provider. You can get an updated Novavax booster shot after you've been fully vaccinated against the virus. Common side effects include tiredness, headache, and pain and tenderness at the injection site.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
reviewer
Ashley Wong, PharmD
Last reviewed on October 9, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?

What is Novavax COVID-19 vaccine used for?

  • Prevention of COVID-19 infection in people aged 12 years and older

How Novavax COVID-19 vaccine works

The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is a recombinant vaccine. It contains a modified, harmless version of the "spike protein" found on the COVID-19 virus. When it's injected into your body, your immune system knows that this spike protein doesn't belong in your body, so it makes antibodies against it. The antibodies tell other immune cells in your body to get rid of the spike protein. This teaches your body how to recognize the COVID-19 virus. So when you get infected with the COVID-19 virus, your immune system is ready to fight and protect you from infection.

Are you looking for information on Spikevax (Moderna COVID-19 vaccine) or Comirnaty (Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsNone
Drug ClassRecombinant vaccine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityNot FDA-approved yet

More on Novavax COVID-19 vaccine essentials

COVID-19: Vaccine: provider injecting man with vaccine 1291678676

Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine: Here’s What You Should Know

Written by Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD
goodrx novavax

Updated Novavax Vaccine Appointments Near You

Written by Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$206.46(save 33.63%)
GoodRx discount
$137.04
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Pain or tenderness at injection site (up to 69%)
  • Tiredness or feeling unwell (up to 45%)
  • Headache (up to 38%)
  • Muscle pain (up to 25%)

Other Side Effects

  • Joint pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fever
  • Redness or swelling at injection site

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart inflammation (swelling): chest pain, shortness of breath, a racing heart
  • Serious allergic reactions: trouble breathing; rash; hives; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Source: FDA

More on Novavax COVID-19 vaccine side effects

Health: COVID: GettyImages 1320037511

What Are the COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effects?

Written by Jennifer Gershman, PharmD, CPh, PACS

The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Heart muscle inflammation—unusual weakness or fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

thumbs-up

Pros

A traditional type of vaccine (protein-based)

Recommended by the CDC to prevent COVID-19 infection

An option if you can't or prefer not to get the Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) or Moderna (Spikevax) COVID-19 vaccine

thumbs-down

Cons

Requires two injections to be fully vaccinated

Not authorized for use for people under 12 years old

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

pharmacist

  • The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is injected into your muscle by a healthcare provider at an office, clinic, or pharmacy.

    • Make sure to sit down while you're getting your vaccine and while your healthcare provider is monitoring you afterwards. This helps prevent any injuries if you faint after getting your vaccine.

      • Most side effects are generally mild and a normal sign that your immune system is building protection against the COVID-19 virus. They typically last a couple days and go away on their own. Contact your healthcare provider if any side effects get worse after 24 hours or if they don't go away after a few days.

        • The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine can cause discomfort, pain, or swelling where you got the shot. To help with these side effects, you can hold a cool, wet washcloth over the area where you got the injection. Moving your arm around can also help.

          • The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine can also cause headaches, tiredness, fever, and muscle aches. Try to take it easy and get some rest. Drink plenty of fluids and dress in light clothing to avoid overheating if you develop a fever.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

            Where can you get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?
            The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine should be available at certain provider's offices and pharmacies. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about whether they offer the Novavax vaccine or where you can find the vaccine and schedule an appointment.
            Is the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine an mRNA vaccine?
            No, the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine isn't a messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine. Instead, the Novavax vaccine is a type of vaccine called a recombinant vaccine and is protein-based. It contains a modified, harmless version of a part of the COVID-19 virus called a spike protein. mRNA vaccines — like Comirnaty (Pfizer-BioNTech) and Spikevax (Moderna) COVID vaccines — contain genetic material (mRNA) made in the lab that teaches your body to make a specific protein (in this case, the spike protein). The two types of vaccines use different technology. But the overall goal is the same: to help protect you from COVID-19 infection by getting your immune system to make antibodies against this protein and fight against the virus.
            Can you get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine after the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine?
            If you haven't gotten any COVID-19 vaccines before, you should get fully vaccinated against the virus with the same manufacturer of the COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax). Getting fully vaccinated will take 1 to 3 injections (doses), depending on the manufacturer and your age. Once you're fully vaccinated, you can get any of the three COVID-19 vaccines available as your booster or additional dose; this is called "mixing and matching." To make sure you're up to date with COVID-19 vaccination, ask your provider or pharmacist about whether you need to get another COVID-19 vaccine dose and when you should get it or check out the CDC-recommended dosing schedule.
            Can I get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine as a booster for COVID-19?
            Yes, the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine has an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA for its use as a booster for COVID-19. As the name suggests, a booster shot "boosts" or wakes up your immune system to make protection against the virus stronger. It's important to get a booster shot for COVID-19 because protection against the virus can lessen over time.
            Is the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine FDA approved?
            The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine isn't FDA approved yet. But it received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA for its use to protect against COVID-19 infection. The EUA allows unapproved vaccines like Novavax to be used during a public health emergency. Rest assured, the FDA reviews data from ongoing or final clinical studies to make sure that the Novavax vaccine works well enough and is safe enough to use.
            Will the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine work well against the different COVID-19 variants?
            Studies show that all the currently available COVID-19 vaccines (including the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine) can protect against severe illness and death from COVID-19. But the COVID-19 vaccines might not offer the same level of protection against all variants of the virus. As new variants and subvariants appear, more research will be done to understand how effective the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine will be against them. The manufacturer (Novavax) might slightly change and update the vaccine to help better target and provide protection against the specific variants or subvariants that cause most of the COVID-19 infections in the U.S. as time goes on. Talk to your healthcare provider or visit the CDC's COVID data tracker for the latest on how effective the COVID-19 vaccines are.
            Is it safe to get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine if I'm pregnant?
            The CDC and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that you should get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and stay up to date with booster shots if you're pregnant. You're at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19 if you get infected while you're pregnant. Recombinant vaccines are generally considered safe in pregnancy. But more studies need to be done to know for sure whether the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is safe for you and your unborn baby. There's an ongoing pregnancy registry that keeps track of the health of mothers who got the Novavax vaccine during pregnancy and the health of their babies. The manufacturer (Novavax) encourages people who got its COVID-19 vaccine during pregnancy to enroll in this registry by visiting the COVID-19 Vaccines International Pregnancy Exposure Registry website. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
            Is it safe to get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine if I'm breastfeeding?
            The CDC and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend that you should get fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and stay up to date with booster shots if you're breastfeeding. More studies need to be done so we can better understand the effects of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine on your milk supply and baby. But the World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that because it isn't a live vaccine, it's unlikely that the Novavax vaccine will harm your breastfed infant. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
            GoodRxEducationalIcon

            How to save using GoodRx

            Compare Prices
            1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
            Select your free coupon
            2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
            Show coupon to your pharmacist
            3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
            Get free couponLearn more
            warings-icon

            What are the risks and warnings for Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?

            Novavax COVID-19 vaccine can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Allergic reaction

            Allergic reactions to the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine are possible. Serious allergic reactions can include hives; shortness of breath; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue; and other symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction. Get medical help or call 911 right away if you experience an allergic reaction during or after you get vaccinated with the Novavax vaccine.

            risk-warning

            Heart inflammation (swelling)

            Although rare, the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine can raise the risk of heart inflammation, such as myocarditis (swelling of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (swelling of the tissue lining the outside of the heart). In clinical studies, this happened in two males at least a week after getting a dose of the original version of the Novavax vaccine. Let your healthcare provider know right away if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or a racing heart, as these can be signs of heart inflammation.

            risk-warning

            Fainting

            Some people have fainted shortly after getting vaccines that are injected into the muscle. Let your healthcare provider know if you have a history of fainting after vaccinations. Your provider can keep a close eye on you for about 15 minutes after you get the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine. To prevent injuries from fainting, it's best to sit down while you're getting your vaccine and while your provider is monitoring you.

            risk-warning

            Lowered response in people with a weakened immune system

            • Risk factors: Conditions that lower the immune system | Taking medications that lower the immune system

              People with a weakened immune system might have a lowered response to the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine. This includes people with certain conditions that weaken the immune system or those who are taking medications that can lower the immune system (e.g., organ transplant, cancer medications, long-term corticosteroid use). Make sure to continue to take the necessary precautions to prevent COVID-19 infection if you have a weak immune system. Let your provider know about your medical history and medication list. Your provider might recommend that you get additional doses of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine if you have a weak immune system.

              dosage

              Novavax COVID-19 vaccine dosage forms

              The average cost for 1 syringe of 0.5ml/dose of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is $146.43 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 29.08% off the average retail price of $206.46.
              syringe
              Syringe
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              0.5ml/dose1 syringe$146.43$146.43
              vial
              Vial
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              0.5ml/dose1 vial$137.04$137.04

              Typical dosing for Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

              The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is injected into the muscle by a healthcare provider. Each injection is 0.5 mL of medication.

              Discuss with your healthcare provider about whether the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is appropriate for you and when to get your dose(s).

              • Primary series (for people who haven't been previously vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine): The typical dose is 1 injection into the muscle. This is followed by a second injection 3 weeks later.

              • Booster dose (for people who've been previously vaccinated with any COVID-19 vaccine): The typical dose is 1 injection into the muscle at least 2 months after your most recent COVID-19 vaccine dose.

              • Additional doses for certain people with a weakened immune system: You can get an additional dose (1 injection) of the Novavax vaccine if it's been at least 2 months after your most recent COVID-19 vaccine dose. Ask your healthcare provider if and when you need an additional dose of the Novavax vaccine.

              Note: The CDC recommendations about the timing of each Novavax vaccine dose might be different. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any questions about when to get the Novavax vaccine.

              drug-cost

              How much does Novavax COVID-19 vaccine cost?

              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
              Novavax (brand)
              GoodRx lowest price

              $137.04

              (save 33.63%)
              View prices & coupons
              contraindications-icon

              Novavax COVID-19 vaccine contraindications

              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Novavax COVID-19 vaccine will not be safe for you to take.

              • Previous allergic reaction to Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

              alternatives

              What are alternatives to Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?

              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
              Novavax COVID-19 vaccine
              Used for:

              • Prevention of COVID-19 infection in people aged 12 years and older

              $137.04 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Comirnaty
              Used for:

              • Prevention of COVID-19 infections in people ages 12 and older

              • Prevention of COVID-19 infections in children ages 6 months to 11 years - EUA only

              $146.91 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Spikevax
              Used for:

              • Prevention of COVID-19 infections in people 12 years and older

              • Prevention of COVID-19 infections in children 6 months to 11 years - EUA only

              $152.24 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              latest news

              What is the latest news about Novavax COVID-19 vaccine?

              COVID-19 vaccines have been proven to prevent serious complications from the virus and are the best way to protect yourself and others around you. Read more to find out about their safety, side effects, and effectiveness against COVID-19.

              What to Know About COVID Vaccines: Comirnaty, Spikevax, Nuvaxovid, and More

              COVID-19 vaccines have been proven to prevent serious complications from the virus and are the best way to protect yourself and others around you. Read more to find out about their safety, side effects, and effectiveness against COVID-19.
              COVID vaccine approvals and recommendations have changed over the years. Get the latest FDA-approval news on the COVID-19 vaccines with GoodRx.

              FDA COVID-19 Vaccine Approval: Live Updates on Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax, and More

              COVID vaccine approvals and recommendations have changed over the years. Get the latest FDA-approval news on the COVID-19 vaccines with GoodRx.
              COVID-19 booster shots are now available. People can choose which booster they get. And you don’t have to pick the same manufacturer of the original vaccine you received. So how do you know which one is best for you? Read on to learn more about COVID-19 vaccine boosters.

              Which Is the Best COVID Booster Shot: Pfizer, Moderna, or Novavax?

              COVID-19 booster shots are now available. People can choose which booster they get. And you don’t have to pick the same manufacturer of the original vaccine you received. So how do you know which one is best for you? Read on to learn more about COVID-19 vaccine boosters.
              Experts recommend avoiding pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil before a COVID-19 vaccine. But taking a pain reliever after receiving a COVID vaccine is likely OK.

              Can You Take Tylenol or Advil Before or After Getting a COVID Vaccine?

              Experts recommend avoiding pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil before a COVID-19 vaccine. But taking a pain reliever after receiving a COVID vaccine is likely OK.
              The COVID vaccine is safe and beneficial to receive during pregnancy. Learn more about the COVID vaccine and pregnancy with this guide from GoodRx.

              Is the COVID Vaccine Safe During Pregnancy?

              The COVID vaccine is safe and beneficial to receive during pregnancy. Learn more about the COVID vaccine and pregnancy with this guide from GoodRx.
              Need to update your vaccines? See costs, recommendations, and FAQs for COVID, flu, and RSV vaccines.

              COVID, Flu, and RSV: Your GoodRx Guide to Getting Vaccinated This Fall

              Need to update your vaccines? See costs, recommendations, and FAQs for COVID, flu, and RSV vaccines.
              Yes, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster at the same time as your flu shot. Here’s what providers want you to know about combining the vaccines.

              Can You Get a COVID-19 Vaccine or Booster and a Flu Shot at the Same Time?

              Yes, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster at the same time as your flu shot. Here’s what providers want you to know about combining the vaccines.
              You can get a Novavax vaccine at major retail pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and more. Here’s how you find an appointment near you.

              Where to Find Novavax Vaccine Appointments Near You

              You can get a Novavax vaccine at major retail pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and more. Here’s how you find an appointment near you.
              With COVID-19 vaccines available to all that want them now, how do you decide which vaccination is best for you? One factor to help you decide between the vaccines is their effectiveness. Keep up with the latest information and updates for the Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines.

              COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness: Live Updates on Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax, and More

              With COVID-19 vaccines available to all that want them now, how do you decide which vaccination is best for you? One factor to help you decide between the vaccines is their effectiveness. Keep up with the latest information and updates for the Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines.
              COVID vaccines for children are available across the country. Here’s where to find COVID vaccine locations near you and how to prepare for your kid’s appointment.

              COVID-19 Vaccines for Kids: How to Schedule and Prepare for Your Child’s Vaccine Appointment

              COVID vaccines for children are available across the country. Here’s where to find COVID vaccine locations near you and how to prepare for your kid’s appointment.

              Get savings updates for Novavax COVID-19 vaccine

              Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Novavax COVID-19 vaccine and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

              By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

              References

              Best studies we found

              American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). COVID-19 vaccination considerations for obstetric–gynecologic care.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Fainting (syncope) after vaccination.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). COVID-19 update for the United States.

              View All References (12)

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). COVID-19 vaccines while pregnant or breastfeeding.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Getting your COVID-19 vaccine.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). How to protect yourself and others.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.

              Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Understanding how COVID-19 vaccines work.

              Kalafat, E., et al. (2021). Benefits and potential harms of COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy: Evidence summary for patient counseling. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology.

              Novavax, Inc. (2023). Fact sheet for healthcare providers administering vaccine: Emergency use authorization of Novavax Covid-19 vaccine, adjuvanted (2023-2024 formula), for individuals 12 years of age and older.

              U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2022). Vaccine types.

              U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). FDA authorizes updated Novavax COVID-19 vaccine formulated to better protect against currently circulating variants.

              U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Novavax COVID-19 vaccine, adjuvanted.

              World Health Organization. (2022). The Novavax vaccine against COVID-19: What you need to know.

              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
              Was this page helpful?

              Browse medications

              View All

              Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.