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mNEXSPIKE

Pronunciation: em-nex'-spyk
Generic name: COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA
Brand name: mNEXSPIKE
Dosage form: suspension for injection (0.2 mL)

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Sep 2, 2025.

What is mNEXSPIKE? COVID-19 Vaccine

mNEXSPIKE is a COVID-19 vaccine containing messenger RNA (mRNA) technology designed to protect against COVID-19 infection. The 2025-2026 lower dose formula represents the latest updated version of Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, specifically targeting the currently circulating LP.8.1 variants of SARS-CoV-2.

mNEXSPIKE cannot cause COVID-19 because it does not contain the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Instead, it uses mRNA technology to instruct cells to produce a protein that triggers immune protection against COVID-19.

Key Facts About mNEXSPIKE

mNEXSPIKE Uses

mNEXSPIKE is FDA-approved for COVID-19 prevention in specific populations:

Approved Age Groups:

High-Risk Conditions Include:

Important: mNEXSPIKE may not protect all people who receive the vaccine. Breakthrough infections can still occur, but vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe COVID-19, hospitalization, and death.

How mNEXSPIKE Works

mNEXSPIKE uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology to provide COVID-19 protection:

This process trains your immune system to recognize and fight SARS-CoV-2 if exposed to the actual virus in the future.

mNEXSPIKE Side Effects

Common Side Effects (Very Common):

Injection site reactions:

Systemic reactions:

These side effects are typically mild to moderate and resolve within 1-3 days.

Serious Side Effects (Rare)

Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

There is a very small risk that mNEXSPIKE could cause a severe allergic reaction. For this reason, your healthcare provider may ask you to stay for a short time at the place where you received your vaccine. Seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience:

Timeline: Usually occurs within minutes to 1 hour after vaccination.

Heart Inflammation (Myocarditis/Pericarditis)

Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) and pericarditis (inflammation of the lining outside the heart) have occurred in some people who have received mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.  

Risk factors:

Warning signs to watch for (especially first 2 weeks):

Prognosis: Most cases resolve with anti-inflammatory treatment, though some people may have persistent heart changes on MRI scans. Long-term effects are still being studied.

Report vaccine side effects to VAERS (Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System), phone 1-800-822-7967, vaers.hhs.gov, or your healthcare provider. Reporting helps monitor vaccine safety and identify rare side effects.

Before Receiving mNEXSPIKE

Absolute Contraindications

Do NOT receive mNEXSPIKE if you have:

Tell your healthcare provider if you have:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Considerations

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended during pregnancy because:

Discuss with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

mNEXSPIKE is recommended for breastfeeding individuals and no safety concerns have been identified with mRNA vaccines during breastfeeding. There is also the potential benefit that antibodies may pass through breast milk to protect infants.

How is mNEXSPIKE Administered?

mNEXSPIKE is given as a single injection (one dose) into the upper arm muscle (deltoid).

Administration Guidelines:

Administered by trained healthcare professionals

Observation period - 15-30 minutes after injection to monitor for allergic reactions

Documentation - vaccination record should be updated

Spacing - follow CDC guidelines for spacing from other vaccines

Dosing Information

What other drugs may affect mNEXSPIKE?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

See the product information for a full list of interactions.

mNEXSPIKE Ingredients

Active ingredient: Messenger RNA (mRNA) - encoding SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

Inactive ingredients: Lipids: SM-102, PEG 2000 DMG, cholesterol, DSPC (1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine), tromethamine and tromethamine hydrochloride (pH adjusters), Sucrose (stabilizer).

mNEXSPIKE does NOT contain:

Storage and Handling

mNEXSPIKE requires ultra-cold storage and careful handling:

Protect from light during storage and transport

Healthcare facilities must follow strict cold chain protocols to maintain vaccine potency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How effective is mNEXSPIKE?

Clinical trials and real-world data show mRNA COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe COVID-19, hospitalization, and death, though breakthrough infections can occur with new variants.

Can I get mNEXSPIKE with other vaccines?

Yes, mNEXSPIKE can be given simultaneously with other vaccines (like flu vaccine), but should be administered in different arms.

How long does protection last?

Protection may wane over time, which is why updated formulas like the 2025-2026 version are developed to maintain effectiveness against circulating variants.

What if I've had COVID-19 before?

You should still receive mNEXSPIKE as vaccination provides broader and longer-lasting protection than natural infection alone.

Can immunocompromised people receive mNEXSPIKE?

Yes, but they should consult their healthcare provider, as they may need additional doses and may not mount as strong an immune response.

When to Seek Medical Care

Seek immediate emergency care for:

Contact your healthcare provider for:

Manufacturer

Moderna US, Inc., Princeton, NJ 08540

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.