Is Shingrix a Live Vaccine? Plus, 8 Other Shingles Vaccine FAQs Answered
Shingrix is not a live vaccine. The CDC recommends two doses of Shingrix between 2 and 6 months apart. Learn more about Shingrix with these FAQs from GoodRx.
Shingrix
Used for Shingles
Used for Shingles
Shingrix is a shingles vaccine. It's an inactive, recombinant vaccine given to prevent shingles (herpes zoster) in adults ages 50 years and older. Shingrix can also be given to younger adults who have a weakened immune system. This vaccine is injected into the muscle in two doses, typically scheduled 2 to 6 months apart. Common side effects of Shingrix include pain and swelling at the injection site, muscle pain, and headache. Shingrix is the only shingles vaccine in the United States; it replaces the discontinued Zostavax.
What is Shingrix?
What is Shingrix used for?
- Prevention of shingles
How Shingrix works
Shingrix is an inactive, recombinant vaccine that protects you from the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which is the virus that causes shingles. Shingrix is made using a protein from the VZV. The protein triggers your immune system to make antibodies against the virus. These antibodies will attack the VZV if it ever reactivates inside your body.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Shingrix |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Vaccine |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
More on Shingrix essentials
Side effects of Shingrix
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 at injection site (up to 88%)
- Fatigue (up to 57%)
- Muscle pain (up to 57%)
- Headache (up to 51%)
- Redness at injection site (up to 39%)
- Shivering (up to 36%)
- Swelling at injection site (up to 31%)
- Fever (up to 28%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
Note: Side effects appear to be more common in younger adults than in older adults.
Shingrix serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reactions: hives, rash, itching, dizziness, fever, shaking, nausea, flushing, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, chest pain
More on Shingrix side effects
The following Shingrix 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
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Feeling faint or lightheaded
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
Get your GoodRx coupon
$228.42
GoodRx discount
$133.76
Pros and cons of Shingrix
Pros
- Up to 97% effective at preventing shingles
- Up to 91% effective at preventing long-term nerve pain in people who got shingles despite getting vaccinated
- Protection against varicella-zoster virus can last for up to 10 years
- Typically easy to find at most pharmacies and clinics
Cons
- Must be given as an injection into the muscle
- Need to get 2 doses
- Can only be given by a healthcare provider
- Unknown if safe while pregnant or breastfeeding
Pharmacist tips for Shingrix
- Read the Vaccine Information Statement for more information on Shingrix.
- Don't get Shingrix if you're sick, especially if you have a fever. Wait until you recover first. But if you're sick with only mild symptoms, such as the beginning of a cold, you can still get Shingrix. Ask your primary care provider if you're not sure whether or not you need to wait to get the vaccine.
- It's recommended to get Shingrix even if you've already had shingles because it can prevent you from getting it again in the future.
- After your first dose of Shingrix, make sure to schedule your second dose. For this vaccine to work well, you need two doses, typically given 2 to 6 months apart.
- It's common to experience side effects, such as sore arm, tiredness, headache, or fever, right after you get Shingrix. These side effects typically last 2 to 3 days. But let your provider know if they last longer than that.
- If you get a severe reaction to Shingrix, you or your healthcare provider can report it to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) by visiting their website or by calling 1-800-822-7967.
- Let your healthcare provider know if you think you might be due for other vaccines. They can double check whether or not you're able to get them on the same day as Shingrix.
More on Shingrix tips
Risks and warnings for Shingrix
Shingrix 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.
Allergic reactions to the vaccine
- Risk factors: Past allergic reaction to vaccines
As with any vaccine, there's a rare chance that you might have a severe allergic reaction to Shingrix. Your provider might ask you to stay at the pharmacy or clinic for a short period of time after you've received your vaccine to make sure you can get proper care if a serious allergic reaction happens. Sometimes, these reactions can happen after you've already left the clinic. Get medical help right away if you notice symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as feeling faint, swelling of the face, closing of the throat, difficulty breathing, hives or rash, dizziness, shaking, nausea, or chest pain.
Fainting
- Risk factors: Fainting after vaccines in the past
Some people have fainted during or after getting injectable vaccines, such as Shingrix. Fainting can happen along with temporary changes in vision, burning sensation, and stiffening or twitching of your arms and legs. Let your provider know if you've fainted after getting vaccines in the past so they can monitor you.
Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)
- Risk factors: Older adults
Although very rare, some people have reported getting Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) after they've received Shingrix. The risk for this syndrome might be higher during the first month and a half after getting the vaccine. GBS is a rare condition that causes muscle weakness, tingling in the body, and paralysis. Let your provider know right away if you experience these symptoms.
Shingrix dosage
The average cost for 1 carton of 1 vaccine of 0.5ml of Shingrix is $133.76 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 41.44% off the average retail price of $228.42. 
Carton
Carton| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 vaccine of 0.5ml | 1 carton | $133.76 | $133.76 |
Typical dosage for Shingrix
The typical dose is 0.5 mL injected into the muscle for 2 doses. The injections are given by a healthcare provider.
After the first dose, the second dose is typically given 2 to 6 months later. For people who have a weaker immune system, the second dose can be given sooner (1 to 2 months after the first dose).
More on Shingrix dosage
How much does Shingrix cost?
To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
Shingrix (brand)
$133.76
Shingrix 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 Shingrix will not be safe for you to take.
- Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of Shingrix
News about Shingrix
How Much Is Shingrix Without Insurance?
Most health insurance plans cover Shingrix. Learn more about how much the shingles vaccine costs without insurance with this guide from GoodRx.
Which Vaccines Does Medicare Cover?
Original Medicare’s Part B and Part D cover most vaccinations — including RSV, shingles, flu, COVID-19, and more — without out-of-pocket costs.
Guide to Shingrix (Shingles Vaccine): Side Effects, Cost, Schedule, and More
Here’s your guide to everything you need to know about the shingles vaccine, including side effects, schedule, cost, and how long it lasts.
Is a Herpes Vaccine Currently In the Works?
The herpes simplex virus is regarded as permanent, but researchers are closer to developing a vaccine (and maybe a cure). See updates on the vaccine progress.
Varivax vs. Shingrix: 4 Differences Between The Vaccines
Varivax and Shingrix are vaccines for chickenpox and shingles, respectively. These vaccines target different age groups and have several other key differences.
How Much Does a Shingles Vaccine Cost?
As of January 2024, the shingles vaccination is $395.80 for a two-dose course, or $197.90 per dose. Learn how to save and if you can get the vaccine for free.
Does Medicare Cover the Shingles Vaccine?
Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans only cover the shingles vaccine if you have Part D coverage. Learn more about Medicare vaccine coverage.
7 Shingles Vaccine Side Effects: What to Expect After Receiving Shingrix
Stay informed about shingles vaccine (Shingrix) side effects with GoodRx. Understand risks and reactions for an informed decision.
How to Save Money on Your CVS Immunizations
Find out how GoodRx can help you save on immunizations for shingles, Tdap, and more at CVS.
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