What Should You Do If Shingrix Was Accidentally Given Subcutaneously (SQ)?

Candice asked

What should you do if you accidentally give Shingrix subq as opposed to IM?

Answer

Shingrix is a vaccine indicated for prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) in adults aged 50 years and older. The vaccine should be administered as a intramuscular injection (IM) in a 2 dose series.

According to the CDC:

"Shingrix should be injected intramuscularly in the deltoid region of the upper arm. However, it is not necessary to repeat vaccination if it is administered subcutaneously."

It is important to note that it is not necessary to receive Shingrix again if it was accidentally given subcutaneously instead of intramuscularly.

It has been reported that subcutaneous administration often results in more severe pain when compared to to intramuscular administration and is therefore much better tolerated when give IM.

Check out some of our other articles regarding the new shingles vaccine, Shingrix:

• Shinrix Vs. Zostavax: What Is The Difference?

• Getting The Flu Shot And Shingrix Together

• Getting Shingrix If You Had Shingles Before

• What Happens If You Miss The Second Dose Of Shingrix?

• Does Shingrix Have Animal Derived Ingredients?

• Can You Store Shingrix In The Freezer?

• How Much Does Shingrix Cost?

• How Old Do You Need To be For Shingrix?

• How Soon After An Episode Of Shingles Can I Get Shingrix?