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Poliovirus Vaccine Injection

The polio vaccine (poliovirus vaccine) is an injection given to you by a healthcare provider to prevent poliovirus infections. A poliovirus infection can lead to polio. Polio is a condition that can cause various symptoms, the most serious being paralysis. This vaccination is usually done in childhood.

What is this medication?

POLIOVIRUS VACCINE (POH lee oh vahy ruhs vak SEEN) reduces the risk of poliovirus (polio). It does not treat polio. It is still possible to get polio 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.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): IPOL

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

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

  • Immune system problems
  • Infection with fever
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to poliovirus vaccine, 2-phenoxyethanol, formaldehyde, neomycin, streptomycin, polymyxin B, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is injected into a muscle or under the skin. It is given by your care team.

This vaccine requires 3 doses to get the full benefit. Set a reminder for when your next dose is due.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 6 weeks for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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?

Keep appointments for follow-up (booster) doses as directed. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

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What may interact with this medication?

  • Adalimumab
  • Anakinra
  • Infliximab
  • Medications that suppress your immune system
  • Medications to treat cancer
  • 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?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress.

This vaccine, like all vaccines, may not fully protect everyone.

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

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

  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Irritability
  • Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site
  • Poor feeding
  • Vomiting

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?

This vaccine is only given by your care team. It will not be stored at home.

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.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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