FluMist Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
FluMist, the trade name for a nasal-spray influenza virus vaccine, is recommended for healthy children and adults ages 2 through 49 to protect from the seasonal flu. Manufactured by MedImmune, this live viru immunization is administered to the nose rather than injected.
While most people experience no adverse reactions when taking FluMist, side effects are possible as with any medication. The most common side effects of FluMist include stuffy or running nasal passages, sore throat and fever. Children and adults may experience different side effects.[1]
 flumist.com | |
| Brand name for | Influenza Vaccine Live, Intranasal[2] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | MedImmune, LLC, License #1799[2] |
| Uses | Approved for the prevention of certain strains of influenza in healthy children, adolescents, and adults ages 2-49[3] |
| Common side effects | Runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, fever[3] |
| Who should not take FluMist | Individuals under 24 months of age; those with hypersensitivity to eggs or egg proteins; people with prior life-threatening reactions to influenza vaccinations; children and adolescents undergoing an aspirin-regimen[3] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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FluMist Side Effects
The most common side effects exhibited in children who have been administered FluMist include runny nose, headache, wheezing, vomiting, muscle aches, and fever. Adults also may experience runny nose, headache, sore throat, and cough, but fever is not common. Other less serious side effects reported throughout FluMist studies included chills, decreased activity and appetite, irritability, muscle aches, weakness, fatigue and sinusitis.[4] Abdominal pain, ear infection, or diarrhea were also reported by some study participants, as well as in post-marketing studies.[5]
FluMist Allergic Reactions and Precautions
Patients who have previously demonstrated allergies to eggs or egg products are prone to allergic reactions to FluMist, and are therefore advised not to use it. Similarly, patients who have been allergic to flu shots or other flu vaccines in the past will likely experience adverse reactions from FluMist. FluMist also contains inactive ingredients that some patients may be sensitive to, such as gelatin and arginine. Signs of a severe allergic reaction include swelling in the throat or other areas, which may lead to constricted breathing, as well as itchy skin and hives.[6]
FluMist Precautions and Warnings
FluMist, is not indicated for children under the age of two years old, since the medication may cause them to experience wheezing or difficulty breathing. Those who have a medical condition that weakens their immune system are advised tell their doctor about their condition before taking FluMist. Patients that are already taking another flu medication such as Tamiflu, Relenza, amantadine, or rimantadine are instructed to inform their doctors before beginning FluMist.[3]
Flumist is not recommended for individuals with a weakened immune system, or children and adolescents undergoing aspirin therapy. FluMist is not for people with diabetes, an active fever, illness, or infection, a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, asthma or other respiratory disorder. After receiving FluMist, individuals will test positive for influenza for up to 21 days. Patients are advised to avoid close contact with individuals with weakened immune systems during this time.[5]
Drug Side Effects
FluMist and Pregnancy
FluMist is categorized as a Pregnancy Category C drug. As such, it is not recommended for administration during pregnancy. It is unknown whether FluMist passes into breast milk. Patients are advised to consult a physician prior to taking FluMist when breastfeeding.[5]
Also See: FluMist, Tamiflu Coupons, Theraflu Coupons, Agriflu Side Effects, Vaccines for Children, Nyquil Coupons, Flu Shot Side Effects, Free Flu Shots
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References
- ↑ http://www.medimmune.com/pdf/products/flumist_pi.pdf
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/Vaccines/ApprovedProducts/ucm094047.htm
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 http://www.flumist.com/flu-important-safety-information
- ↑ http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/nasalspray.htm
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 http://www.medicinenet.com/influenza_virus_vaccine_live-nasal/article.htm#HowToUse
- ↑ http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-154415-Flumist+2010-2011+Nasl.aspx?drugid=154415&drugname=Flumist+2010-2011+Nasl
