Rotavirus Vaccine (Live, Oral)
Pronunciation: (roh-TUH-vy-rus VAK-seen).
- Generic name
- Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral)
- Brand names
- Rotasure, Rotavac, Rotarix, RotaTeq
- Drug class
- Vaccines & Immunization
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country:
Australia: · Full directory
What Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral) is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral) works
The rotavirus vaccine contains live, attenuated (weakened) rotavirus strains. When administered orally, these strains replicate in the small intestine, stimulating a local and systemic immune response. This leads to the production of anti-rotavirus IgA antibodies and cellular immunity, providing protection against subsequent natural rotavirus infection. (1)
What Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral) is used for
Prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and young children
Prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and young children (1)
Prevention of severe diarrhea caused by rotavirus
Prevention of severe diarrhea caused by rotavirus (1)
Reduction of hospitalizations due to rotavirus infections
Reduction of hospitalizations due to rotavirus infections (1)
Reduction of emergency department visits due to rotavirus infections
Reduction of emergency department visits due to rotavirus infections (1)
Before taking Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral)
Do not take / not appropriate for
- history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine, severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), and previous intussusception. (Contraindication) (1)
- The vaccine should not be administered to infants older than 8 months. (Contraindication) (1)
Tell your clinician about
(1)How to take Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral)
- General Instructions: The rotavirus vaccine is given by mouth, not by injection. It is administered by a healthcare professional as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule.. Adult Dosing: The rotavirus vaccine is not indicated for adults.. Pediatric Dosing: For Rotarix: 2-dose series at ages 2 and 4 months. For RotaTeq: 3-dose series at ages 2, 4, and 6 months. The first dose should be given between 6 and 14 weeks of age, and the series should be completed by 8 months of age.. Administration: The vaccine is administered orally. The entire contents of the oral applicator should be given to the infant. If the infant spits out or regurgitates the dose, do not repeat the dose; continue with the next scheduled dose.. When To Stop: Complete the full series as scheduled. Do not start the series after 15 weeks of age or give any dose after 8 months of age.. Storage: Store in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (1)
Missed dose
If a scheduled dose is missed, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. The series should be completed within the recommended age limits. Do not start the series after 15 weeks of age or give any dose after 8 months of age.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely as the vaccine is administered by healthcare professionals. If an extra dose is given, serious side effects are rare, but monitor for increased side effects and contact your healthcare provider if concerned. (1)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Diarrhea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Vomiting
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Fever
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Irritability
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Intussusception
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Allergic reaction
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
Do not use in infants with a history of intussusception — serious
Symptoms: Do not use in infants with a history of intussusception. Contraindicated in infants with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID). Use caution in infants with chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Monitor for signs of intussusception after vaccination. Inform your doctor of any allergies to vaccine components.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Contraindications recorded in the clinician database — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications recorded in the clinician database: Contraindications include history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine, severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), and previous intussusception. Precautions include moderate or severe acute illness, chronic gastrointestinal disease, and close contact with immunocompromised individuals. The vaccine should not be administered to infants older than 8 months.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (1)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | The rotavirus vaccine may be given at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines. There are no significant drug interactions reported. However, immunosuppressive therapy may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and vaccines your child is receiving. | (1) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
Not applicable — the rotavirus vaccine is an infant/pediatric immunization (given at ages 6 weeks to 8 months) and has no indication, dosing, or safety data for pregnant individuals per the FDA package inserts reviewed for this page. (1)
Breastfeeding
The FDA package inserts reviewed for this page state breastfeeding does not reduce the immune response to rotavirus vaccination and breastfed infants may be vaccinated on the same schedule as non-breastfed infants; the vaccine itself has no indication for use in a breastfeeding parent. (1)
Children
Frequency: Administered at 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months of age.. Weight Based: Not applicable; vaccine is administered in specific doses based on age.. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable.. Max Single Dose: Not applicable; vaccine is administered as per age-specific schedule.. Age Restrictions: Not recommended for use in infants older than 8 months. (1)
Renal_impairment
Not established as a graded dosing question — the rotavirus vaccine is given as a fixed oral dose by age (not adjusted by body weight or organ function), and the FDA package inserts reviewed for this page do not describe a renal- or hepatic-impairment dose adjustment. The inserts do advise caution and individualized clinical judgment for infants with pre-existing chronic gastrointestinal disease. (1)
Hepatic_impairment
Not established as a graded dosing question — the rotavirus vaccine is given as a fixed oral dose by age (not adjusted by body weight or organ function), and the FDA package inserts reviewed for this page do not describe a renal- or hepatic-impairment dose adjustment. The inserts do advise caution and individualized clinical judgment for infants with pre-existing chronic gastrointestinal disease. (1)
Monitoring
(1)Storage
Per the FDA package inserts: Rotarix — store refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C (36-46 degrees F), protected from light, and use within the manufacturer-stated window after reconstitution. RotaTeq — store refrigerated at 2-8 degrees C (36-46 degrees F); do not freeze. Follow the specific product's own label, as reconstitution and handling steps differ between the two vaccines.
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General
Indication: Prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and young children
Dose summary: Not applicable for adults; vaccine is indicated for infants and young children.
Renal context: Not applicable — rotavirus vaccine dosing is a fixed oral volume given on an age-based schedule, not adjusted for renal function. The FDA package inserts reviewed for this page do not describe a renal-impairment dosing adjustment. (1)
Frequently asked questions
What does the rotavirus vaccine protect against?
The rotavirus vaccine protects infants and young children from severe diarrhea and vomiting caused by rotavirus infection, which can lead to dehydration and hospitalization.
How is the rotavirus vaccine given?
The vaccine is given orally (by mouth) as a liquid. It is not an injection and is usually administered by a healthcare professional during routine immunization visits.
What are the most common side effects?
Most infants experience only mild side effects such as temporary irritability, mild diarrhea, or mild vomiting. Serious side effects are rare.
Who should not receive the rotavirus vaccine?
Infants with a history of severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any component of the vaccine, those with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), or a history of intussusception should not receive the vaccine.
Can my child receive the rotavirus vaccine if they are sick?
If your child has a mild illness (such as a cold), vaccination can usually proceed. If your child has moderate or severe illness, especially with vomiting or diarrhea, vaccination should be postponed until recovery.
Is the rotavirus vaccine safe?
Yes, the rotavirus vaccine is considered safe and effective. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. Serious side effects are very rare.
What should I do if my child misses a dose?
Contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. The vaccine series should be completed within the recommended age limits. Do not start the series after 15 weeks of age or give any dose after 8 months of age.
What happens if I take too much Rotavirus vaccine?
The Rotavirus vaccine is administered in specific doses by a healthcare professional. Overdosing is highly unlikely in a clinical setting. However, if there are any concerns about an incorrect dosage or unusual symptoms after vaccination, it is crucial to seek emergency medical help immediately and inform your healthcare provider.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Rotavirus vaccine?
As a live, attenuated viral vaccine, the Rotavirus vaccine is not typically associated with direct interactions with alcohol. However, it is generally advisable to avoid alcohol consumption around the time of any vaccination, as alcohol can potentially suppress the immune system, which might theoretically impact the vaccine's effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Rotavirus vaccine safe during pregnancy?
The Rotavirus vaccine is generally administered to infants and young children and is not indicated for use in pregnant individuals. For any concerns regarding vaccination during pregnancy, it is essential to consult your doctor or healthcare provider. They can assess your individual situation and provide the most appropriate medical guidance.
What is the mechanism of action of Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral)?
The rotavirus vaccine contains live, attenuated (weakened) rotavirus strains. When administered orally, these strains replicate in the small intestine, stimulating a local and systemic immune response. This leads to the production of anti-rotavirus IgA antibodies and cellular immunity, providing protection against subsequent natural rotavirus infection. (1)
What is the generic name of Rotavirus Vaccine (Live, Oral)?
The generic name is Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral). It is sold under brand names including Rotasure, Rotavac, Rotarix, RotaTeq.
What class of drug is Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral)?
Rotavirus Vaccine (Live, Oral) is classed as: Vaccines & Immunization.
References
- Rotavirus Vaccine for Protecting Infants — Prescribing InformationU.S. National Library of Medicine, DailyMed · United States · accessed 2026-08-07 · source 1
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Rotavirus vaccine (live, oral) names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.