A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
GSK-3536819 (MenABCWY), branded under the MenABCWY GSK designation, is a next-generation meningococcal vaccine that offers broad protection against five major serogroups: A, B, C, W, and Y. This pentavalent vaccine is formulated to address the limitations of separate MenB and MenACWY immunizations by delivering a more comprehensive solution in a single injection series. Ideal for individuals between 10 and 25 years of age, the MenABCWY vaccine reduces the risk of life-threatening meningococcal infections. Clinics, hospitals, and vaccination centers seeking to buy MenABCWY now have access to a streamlined approach for adolescent meningococcal disease prevention.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | Not applicable (vaccine – multicomponent protein/polysaccharide) |
License | Pending FDA approval (BLA submitted 2023) |
Bioavailability | Not applicable (administered intramuscularly) |
Legal status | Investigational (not yet approved) |
Chemical Name | GSK-3536819 (MenABCWY) |
Elimination half-life | Not established |
Dosage (Strength) | As per clinical trial protocol – single-dose injection (volume varies by age) |
Pregnancy | Consult doctor – safety in pregnancy not fully evaluated |
Brands | MenABCWY (development name) |
Protein binding | Not applicable (vaccine) |
PubChem CID | Not available |
MedlinePlus | Not listed |
ChEBI | Not available |
ATC code | J07AH09 (proposed) |
DrugBank | Not listed |
KEGG | Not available |
Routes of administration | Intramuscular injection |
MenABCWY is given as a two-dose series administered via intramuscular injection, preferably into the deltoid region of the upper arm. The second dose should be administered six months after the first. Compliance with the recommended interval is critical to ensure long-lasting immunity. Doses should not be interchanged with other meningococcal vaccines.
Each 0.5 mL dose of MenABCWY contains a combination of capsular polysaccharide conjugates from serogroups A, C, W, and Y along with recombinant serogroup B antigens. The active ingredients are adsorbed onto aluminum hydroxide and stabilized with histidine and sodium chloride. The formulation is preservative-free and latex-free.
Precaution is warranted in patients with bleeding disorders or compromised immunity, including those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy. In individuals with febrile illness or acute infection, vaccination should be postponed. The MenABCWY GSK vaccine should be administered under appropriate medical supervision. For institutions planning to buy MenABCWY in bulk, informed consent protocols and adverse event reporting mechanisms must be in place.
Use of the MenABCWY vaccine is contraindicated in individuals with known allergies to any of its components or to previous meningococcal vaccines. This includes known hypersensitivity to CRM197, diphtheria toxoid, or aluminum-based adjuvants.
Frequently reported side effects include:
Adverse events are generally mild and resolve within 48 to 72 hours. Any signs of hypersensitivity or anaphylaxis require immediate medical attention.
What is GSK-3536819 (MenABCWY)?
GSK-3536819, also known as MenABCWY, is a 5-in-1 meningococcal vaccine developed by GSK.
What does the MenABCWY vaccine protect against?
It provides protection against five major groups of Neisseria meningitidis bacteria: A, B, C, W, and Y.
Who is the MenABCWY vaccine intended for?
The vaccine is approved for individuals aged 10 through 25 years.
How is the MenABCWY vaccine administered?
It is given as a two-dose series, with doses administered six months apart.
What are common side effects of the MenABCWY vaccine?
Common side effects may include pain at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches.
Can the MenABCWY vaccine be given with other vaccines?
Consult your healthcare provider to determine the best vaccination schedule, especially if receiving multiple vaccines.
Is the MenABCWY vaccine a live vaccine?
No, it is not a live vaccine and cannot cause meningococcal disease.
How effective is the MenABCWY vaccine?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that MenABCWY elicits a robust immune response against all five targeted serogroups.
Why combine protection into a single vaccine?
Combining protection simplifies immunization schedules and may improve vaccination coverage among adolescents and young adults.
Where can I get the MenABCWY vaccine?
Availability may vary; consult your local healthcare provider or public health department for information on obtaining the vaccine.