Measles, mumps, and rubella virus vaccine, live (Mmr vaccine) (By injection)

Prevents infection by the measles (rubeola), mumps, and rubella (German measles) viruses. MMR vaccine is usually used in children 12 months of age or older and in adults.

Brand Name(s):

M-M-R II

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This vaccine should not be given to adults or children who have had an allergic reaction to neomycin, gelatin, MMR vaccine, or the individual measles, rubella, or mumps vaccines. You should not receive this vaccine if you are pregnant. People who have an infection with fever or problems with the immune system should not receive the vaccine. Make sure the doctor knows if your child or you has blood or bone marrow problems (such as cancer).

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin. This shot is usually given the upper arm.
Your child should receive a shot at 12 to 15 months of age and a second shot before starting grade school or middle school.
If your child receives a shot before 12 months of age, your child should receive another shot between 12 and 15 months of age and a second shot before starting grade school or middle school.
You may need to receive a shot if you are traveling to another country.

If a dose is missed:

It is important to receive this vaccine at the proper time. If you must miss a shot, make another appointment as soon as possible.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Immune globulin should not be given at the same time as the MMR vaccine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

Make sure the doctor knows if the person receiving this vaccine is pregnant or breastfeeding, or if there is a history of brain injury or seizures. Tell the doctor if your child or you has bleeding problems, HIV, or tuberculosis.
Tell your doctor if you or your child has had a severe allergic reaction to eggs.
Tell your doctor if you or your child has had any blood transfusions or received immune globulin in the past 3 months.
Women who receive this vaccine should wait 3 months before getting pregnant.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
High fever (over 103 degrees F)
Severe or long lasting headache, confusion
Unusual bleeding or bruising

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Fever (less than 103 degrees F), sore throat, mild headache, swelling of neck glands, pain in joints
Mild burning, pain, swelling, or redness where the shot was given
Mild joint or muscle pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017