Generic name: pneumococcal 20-valent conjugate vaccine [ NOO-moe-KOK-al-20-VAY-lent-KON-joo-gate-VAX-een ]
Drug class: Bacterial vaccines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Mar 4, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Prevnar 20?

Pneumococcal disease is a serious infection caused by a bacteria that can infect the sinuses, inner ear, lungs, blood, and brain. These conditions can be fatal.

Prevnar 20 is used in adults to help prevent disease caused by pneumococcal bacteria. This vaccine contains 20 different types of pneumococcal bacteria.

This vaccine helps your body develop immunity to the disease, but will not treat an active infection you already have.

Like any vaccine, Prevnar 20 may not provide protection from disease in every person.

Prevnar 20 side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Keep track of all side effects you have. If you ever need another Prevnar 20, you will need to tell the vaccination provider if the previous shot caused any side effects.

Becoming infected with pneumococcal disease is much more dangerous to your health than receiving this vaccine. However, like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects but the risk of serious side effects is low.

Common side effects of Prevnar 20 may include:

• pain or swelling where a shot was given;

• muscle or joint pain;

• headache; or

• feeling tired.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

Warnings

You should not receive this vaccine if you ever had a severe allergic reaction to a pneumococcal or diphtheria toxoid vaccine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not receive this vaccine if you ever had a severe allergic reaction to a pneumococcal or diphtheria toxoid vaccine.

Tell the vaccination provider if you have:

• a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine); or

• if you are receiving radiation or chemotherapy.

You can still receive a vaccine if you have a minor cold. In the case of a more severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until you get better before receiving this vaccine.

Tell the vaccination provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take Prevnar 20?

This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle.

Prevnar 20 is usually given as 1 shot.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Prevnar 20 is used as a single dose and does not have a booster schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid while taking Prevnar 20?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect Prevnar 20?

Tell the vaccination provider if you have recently received drugs or treatments that can weaken the immune system, including:

• steroid medicine;

• medications to treat psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders; or

• medicines to treat or prevent organ transplant rejection.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Prevnar 20, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

• Your vaccination provider, pharmacist, or doctor can provide more information about this vaccine. Additional information is available from your local health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 1.02.