When Is The Best Time To Get The Second Shingrix Shot?

Answer

The dosing recommendation for Shingrix is as follows:

• Healthy adults 50 years and older should get two doses of Shingrix, 2 to 6 months apart.

In regard to the second dose, there is no "ideal" month during the two to six-month time frame. According to the prescribing information for Shingrix, there is no significant difference in efficacy or adverse effects, regardless of the month the second dose is given (as long as it is 2 to 6 months after the first dose):

"The safety profile of SHINGRIX was similar when administered according to a 0- and 2-month or 0- and 6-month schedule."

You can feel comfortable getting your second dose anytime during the 2-6 month window, including at exactly two months since your first dose.

Is There A Minimum Interval?

The Immunization Action Coalition states that the absolute minimum interval between the first and second dose is 4 weeks, but it is still highly recommended to stick to the 2 to 6-month interval if possible. One exception for giving a dose sooner could be for someone undergoing chemotherapy.

The 'Ask The Experts' feature on Immunize.org states the following:

Q: I have an oncology patient age 35 years who had chickenpox as a child and is going to be initiating chemotherapy soon. What are the guidelines in such a situation?
A: The risk for zoster and its severe morbidity and mortality is much greater for immunosuppressed people. A 2-dose series of Shingrix should be administered as soon as possible while the person's immune system is intact. In cases such as this, depending upon the timing of chemotherapy initiation, you may wish to consider a shorter interval of at least 4 weeks (1 month) in order to complete the series as soon as possible.

If the second dose of Shingrix is given earlier than 4 weeks after the first dose, the second dose needs to be regiven.

Final Words

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