What is the recommended dose of Shingrix (zoster vaccine) in milliliters (ml) for adults aged 50 years and older?

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Last updated: February 2, 2026View editorial policy

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Shingrix Dose: 0.5 mL per Injection

Shingrix is administered as 0.5 mL intramuscularly per dose, given as a two-dose series. 1

Dosing Specifications

  • Each single dose after reconstitution contains exactly 0.5 mL of vaccine suspension 1
  • The vaccine is supplied as a lyophilized antigen component that must be reconstituted with an accompanying adjuvant suspension component 1
  • After reconstitution, withdraw 0.5 mL from the vial and administer intramuscularly 1

Administration Details

  • Route: Intramuscular (IM) injection only 1, 2
  • Site: The preferred injection site is the deltoid region of the upper arm 1
  • Timing: Administer immediately after reconstitution, or store refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F) and use within 6 hours 1
  • Discard any reconstituted vaccine not used within 6 hours 1

Two-Dose Series Schedule

  • Standard schedule (immunocompetent adults ≥50 years): First dose at Month 0, second dose at 2-6 months later 1, 2
  • Shortened schedule (immunocompromised adults ≥18 years): First dose at Month 0, second dose at 1-2 months later 1, 3
  • Minimum interval between doses: 4 weeks, though this is not the recommended interval 3

Important Caveats

  • Use a separate sterile needle and sterile syringe for each individual 1
  • The 0.5 mL dose volume is consistent across all age groups and immunization statuses—there is no dose adjustment based on age, weight, or immune status 1
  • Do not confuse the reconstitution volume with the administered dose—you reconstitute the entire vial but administer only 0.5 mL 1

References

Guideline

SHINGRIX Vaccination Schedule for Adults

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2026

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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