Shingrix

Shingrix is a non-live, recombinant subunit vaccine developed by GSK for the prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia. The vaccine consists of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) glycoprotein E (gE) antigen, which is the most abundant envelope protein of the virus and a key target for immune responses. To enhance immunogenicity, particularly in older adults and immunocompromised individuals, the antigen is formulated with the AS01B adjuvant system. AS01B is a liposomal formulation containing two immunostimulants: 3-O-desacyl-4'-monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL), a detoxified derivative of lipid A from Salmonella minnesota that acts as a TLR4 agonist, and QS-21, a saponin extracted from the Quillaja saponaria Molina tree. Shingrix is administered as a two-dose intramuscular series and was first approved by the FDA in 2017.

Brand names

Shingrix

Other names

Recombinant zoster vaccineHerpes zoster subunit vaccinegE/AS01B