Cholera Oral Vaccine

What is this medication?

CHOLERA VACCINE (kol er uh vak SEEN) reduces the risk of cholera. It does not treat cholera. It is still possible to get cholera after receiving this vaccine, but the symptoms may be less severe or not last as long. It works by helping your immune system learn how to fight off a future infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Vaxchora

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Immune system problems
• Recent antibiotic use
• An unusual or allergic reaction to cholera vaccine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is given by mouth. It is given by your care team.

Take this vaccine on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after food or drink.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. This sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team to see which vaccines are right for you. Some vaccines should not be used in all age groups.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

• Antibiotics taken by mouth or injection
• Chemotherapy
• Chloroquine
• Medications that lower your chance of fighting infection
• Steroid medications, such as prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular health checks.

This is a live virus vaccine. It uses a weakened form of the germ that causes a disease. It is not likely to make you sick. It is possible to transfer the germ to close contacts for up to 14 days after your dose. Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before preparing or handling food.

Before you receive this vaccine, talk to your care team if you have an acute illness. Vaccines can be given to people with mild acute illness, such as the common cold or diarrhea. Discuss with your care team the risks and benefits of receiving this vaccine during a moderate to severe illness. Your care team may choose to wait to give you the vaccine when you feel better.

Report any side effects to your care team or to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) website at https://vaers.hhs.gov. This is only for reporting side effects; VAERs staff do not give medical advice.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This vaccine is only given by your care team. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.