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Pneumovax (PPSV23)

University of Minnesota · Phase 3 active Biologic

Pneumovax (PPSV23) is a polysaccharide vaccine that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against 23 serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.

Pneumovax (PPSV23) is a polysaccharide vaccine that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against 23 serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. Used for Prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease (pneumonia, bacteremia, meningitis), Prevention of pneumococcal otitis media and sinusitis.

At a glance

Generic namePneumovax (PPSV23)
Also known as23-valent pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide vaccine, PPSV23, Pneumovax
SponsorUniversity of Minnesota
Drug classPolysaccharide vaccine
TargetStreptococcus pneumoniae capsular polysaccharides (23 serotypes)
ModalityBiologic
Therapeutic areaImmunology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

PPSV23 contains purified capsular polysaccharides from 23 different pneumococcal serotypes conjugated to a carrier protein. When administered, it triggers B-cell and T-cell mediated immune responses, leading to the production of opsonizing antibodies that enhance phagocytosis and complement-mediated killing of pneumococcal bacteria. This provides protection against invasive pneumococcal disease including pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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