Last reviewed 2026-05-14 · How we verify

Zoster Vaccine, Live (AMP)

The Zoster Vaccine, Live (AMP) works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce a specific response against the varicella-zoster virus.

The Zoster Vaccine, Live (AMP) works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce a specific response against the varicella-zoster virus. Used for Prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) in adults 50 years of age and older.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

This vaccine contains a live, attenuated form of the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox and shingles. When administered, it triggers an immune response that helps the body recognize and fight the virus, providing protection against future infections.

Approved indications

• Prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) in adults 50 years of age and older

Common side effects

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Fatigue
• Headache

Key clinical trials

• Use of Virtual Reality in the Reduction of Pain After the Administration of Vaccines Among Children in Primary Care Centers. (NA)
• Safety, Tolerability, and Immunogenicity of Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Varicella (MMRV) Vaccine Made With an Alternative Manufacturing Process (AMP)(V221-027) (PHASE3)
• Safety and Immunogenicity of Zoster Vaccine (ZOSTAVAX™) Made With an Alternative Manufacturing Process (AMP) (V211-042 AM1) (PHASE3)

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

Competitive intelligence

For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:

• Zoster Vaccine, Live (AMP) CI brief — competitive landscape report
• Zoster Vaccine, Live (AMP) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
• Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC portfolio CI