Brand Name of the MMR Vaccine
The brand name of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine in the United States is M-M-R II, manufactured by Merck & Co., Inc. 1 Since June 2022, a second MMR vaccine called PRIORIX, manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals, has also become available in the US market. 1
Available MMR Vaccine Products
M-M-R II (Merck & Co., Inc.)
- Has been the sole MMR vaccine available in the United States since 1978 until 2022 1
- Contains live attenuated measles (Enders-Edmonston strain), mumps (Jeryl Lynn strain), and rubella (Wistar RA 27/3 strain) viruses 1
- Administered as a subcutaneous injection 1
PRIORIX (GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals)
- Approved by the FDA on June 6,2022 1
- Contains three live attenuated viruses that are genetically similar or identical to the corresponding components in M-M-R II 1
- Also administered as a subcutaneous injection 1
Interchangeability of the Vaccines
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has determined that:
- PRIORIX and M-M-R II are fully interchangeable for all indications 1
- Either vaccine may be administered in any situation where an MMR virus-containing vaccine is indicated 1
- Having two interchangeable vaccines from different manufacturers helps safeguard the US vaccine supply 1
Formulation Details
M-M-R II contains:
- Approximately 0.3 milligrams of human albumin
- 25 micrograms of neomycin
- 14.5 milligrams of sorbitol
- 14.5 milligrams of hydrolyzed gelatin 1
Prior to 2006, M-M-R II was manufactured using human serum albumin (HSA), but this was later replaced with recombinant human albumin (rHA) to mitigate potential supply risks. Studies have shown comparable immunogenicity and safety profiles between the two formulations. 2
Both M-M-R II and PRIORIX have demonstrated similar safety outcomes, including comparable rates of febrile convulsions, which are a rare but recognized adverse event following MMR vaccination. 3
The availability of both vaccines provides healthcare providers with options that can help ensure continued protection against these important vaccine-preventable diseases.