Indications

Menactra is indicated for active immunization to prevent invasive meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, Y and W-135. This vaccine is approved for use in individuals 9 months through 55 years of age. Menactra does not prevent N meningitidis serogroup B disease.

Pharmacology

The presence of bactericidal anti-capsular meningococcal antibodies has been associated with protection from invasive meningococcal disease. Menactra induces the production of bactericidal antibodies specific to the capsular polysaccharides of serogroups A, C, Y and W-135.

Dosage & Administration

Primary Vaccination:
  • Children 9 through 23 months of age: Two doses, three months apart.
  • Individuals 2 through 55 years of age: A single dose.
Booster Vaccination:
  • A single booster dose may be given to individuals 15 through 55 years of age at continued risk for meningococcal disease, if at least 4 years have elapsed since the prior dose.

Interaction

When Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Vaccine Adsorbed) are to be administered to children 4 through 6 years of age, preference should be given to simultaneous administration of the 2 vaccines or administration of Menactra prior to Menactra. Administraton of Menactra one month after Menactra has been shown to reduce meningococcal antibody responses to Menactra

Pneumococcal antibody responses to some serotypes in Prevnar (PCV7) were decreased following co-administration of Menactra and PCV7.

Contraindications

Severe allergic reaction (eg, anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of a meningococcal capsular polysaccharide-, diphtheria toxoid- or CRM 197-containing vaccine, or to any component of Menactra

Side Effects

Common (≥10%): solicited adverse events in infants and toddlers 9 and 12 months of age were injection site tenderness, erythema, and swelling; irritability, abnormal crying, drowsiness, appetite loss, vomiting, and fever.

Common (≥10%): solicited adverse events in individuals 2 through 55 years of age who received a single dose were injection site pain, redness, induration, and swelling; anorexia and diarrhea. Other common solicited adverse events were irritability and drowsiness (2-10 years of age), headache, fatigue, malaise, and arthralgia (11-55 years of age).

Pregnancy & Lactation

Safety and effectiveness of Polysaccharide Diphtheria Toxoid Conjugate Vaccine have not been established in children younger than 9 months of age, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and adults older than 55 years of age.

Precautions & Warnings

Persons previously diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) may be at increased risk of GBS following receipt of Menactra. The decision to give Menactra should take into account the potential benefits and risks.

Therapeutic Class

Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin

Storage Conditions

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Store at +2°C to +8°C. Transportation should also be at +2°C to +8 °C. Do not freeze. Discard solution if frozen. Protect from light.
Pack Image of Menactra 0.5 ml Injection Pack Image: Menactra 0.5 ml Injection