Influenza Nasal Vaccine, Live

What is this medication?

INFLUENZA NASAL VACCINE (in floo EN zuh NEY zuhl vak SEEN) reduces the risk of the influenza (flu). It does not treat influenza. It is still possible to get influenza after receiving this vaccine, but the symptoms may be less severe or not last as long. It works by helping your immune system learn how to fight off a future infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): FluMist

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Asthma or wheezing
• Guillain-Barre syndrome or other neurological problems
• Immune system problems
• Other chronic health problems
• Under 18 and taking aspirin
• An unusual or allergic reaction to influenza vaccine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. Different brands of vaccines contain different allergens. Some may contain latex or eggs. Talk to your care team about your allergies to make sure that you get the right vaccine.
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is for use in the nose. It is usually given by your care team. It may also be given at home.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. This sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team to see which vaccines are right for you. Some vaccines should not be used in all age groups.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following :

• Anakinra

This medication may also interact with the following:

• Aspirin and aspirin-like medications
• Certain medications for arthritis
• Medications for organ transplant
• Medications to treat cancer
• Medications to treat the flu
• Other medications used in the nose
• Other vaccines
• Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Report any side effects to your care team right away.

After receiving this vaccine, stay away from people who have severe immune system problems for 7 days. You may give them the flu.

This vaccine lowers your risk of getting the flu. You may still get a milder flu infection if you are around others with the flu. The flu vaccine will not protect against colds or other illnesses. A yearly vaccination for the flu is recommended.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

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
• Wheezing or trouble breathing

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

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Irritability
• Loss or appetite
• Muscle pain
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep this vaccine in the original carton until you are ready to take it. Protect from light. Once removed from the refrigerator, you may keep the vaccine at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F) for up to 12 hours before use. Get rid of the vaccine after the expiration has passed.

Unused vaccine and your used sprayer should be returned through the return shipment program. Follow the directions given to you with your dose. Do not dispose of the vaccine or sprayer in the household trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.