Influvac

Description: Influvac 0.5ml injection is an influenza vaccine designed to protect against four strains of the flu virus. It stimulates the body to produce antibodies, building immunity to prevent infection. In Pakistan, it’s administered under medical supervision, following Pakistan Medical Association guidelines, to reduce flu-related illness, especially during seasonal outbreaks.

Ingredients Influenza Vaccine (inactivated, quadrivalent).

Drug Class Vaccine.

Dosage Form Injection (0.5ml pre-filled syringe).

Requires Prescription Yes.

Uses In Pakistan, Influvac 0.5ml is used for:

• Preventing seasonal influenza (flu) caused by four virus strains.
• Reducing flu symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches in at-risk groups.
• Protecting high-risk individuals, such as the elderly, children, or those with chronic conditions.
• Lowering the spread of flu in communities during peak seasons.

Doctor’s Review Dr. Rabeya Tufail, MBBS from Ziauddin University and Managing Editor at CureCartDirect, states: “Influvac 0.5ml injection offers effective protection against four major flu strains, reducing illness severity and spread. It’s especially valuable for vulnerable groups in Pakistan during flu season.”

Dosage Administered as a single 0.5ml injection, typically once per flu season, as prescribed by your doctor. Usually given in the upper arm muscle (intramuscularly) for adults and children. For those with bleeding issues, it may be given under the skin (subcutaneously). Never inject intravenously.

In Case of Overdose Overdose is unlikely with a single-dose vaccine. If multiple doses are accidentally given, contact a doctor immediately for monitoring, as it may cause increased side effects like fever or swelling.

Missed Dose Since Influvac is typically a one-time seasonal dose, missing it means you may need to reschedule with your doctor. Annual vaccination is recommended, so plan for the next flu season if missed.

How to Use A healthcare professional administers the 0.5ml injection, usually in the upper arm muscle. For specific cases (e.g., bleeding disorders), it may be given under the skin. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

When Not to Use Avoid Influvac 0.5ml if you have:

• Allergy to influenza vaccine or any ingredients (e.g., egg proteins, as it’s made using eggs).
• Severe allergic reaction to a previous flu vaccine.
• Acute fever or illness (delay until recovered).

Side Effects Possible side effects include:

• Redness, swelling, soreness, bruising, or itching at the injection site.
• Fever, chills, or headache.
• Feeling generally unwell (malaise).
• Muscle aches or pains. Report persistent or severe effects to your doctor.

Precautions & Warnings Pakistan’s medical guidelines advise:

• Be cautious driving or using machinery until you know how the vaccine affects you, as dizziness or malaise may occur.
• Delay vaccination if you have a fever or acute illness until recovery.
• Inform your doctor of egg allergies, as the vaccine is egg-based.
• Consult your doctor if pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding—while generally safe, individual advice is needed.
• For bleeding disorders, subcutaneous injection may be preferred to avoid muscle bleeding.
• Never administer intravenously.

Drug Interactions Inform your doctor about all medications. Key interactions include:

• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) or cytotoxic drugs (e.g., chemotherapy), which may weaken the immune response to the vaccine.
• Radiotherapy, which can reduce vaccine effectiveness. Discuss with your doctor if on immunosuppressive treatments.

Food Interactions

• No specific food interactions are noted.
• Maintain a balanced diet to support immune response post-vaccination.
• Avoid excessive alcohol around vaccination time, as it may worsen side effects like headache or malaise.

Storage/Disposal Store in a refrigerator at 2°C–8°C, in the original packaging, away from light. Do not freeze, as it damages the vaccine. Dispose of used syringes or expired doses per medical waste guidelines—consult a pharmacist or healthcare provider. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Control Drug No

Quick Tips

• Get vaccinated annually before flu season, as advised by your doctor.
• Report allergies, especially to eggs, before injection.
• Expect mild soreness or fever; rest if needed.
• Avoid if you’re currently sick with a fever.
• Store in a fridge, never frozen.
• Ensure administration by a trained professional.

Disclaimer This is product information on Influvac (influenza vaccine), not a medical prescription. Consult a qualified Pakistani doctor for diagnosis, treatment, or dosing. Do not self-medicate based on this content.