CDC Observes Reduction in Rotavirus Disease After the Introduction of ROTATEQ(R), Merck's Rotavirus Vaccine

Data from two different surveillance systems showed that in this ongoing rotavirus season, compared to previous years, there was a marked reduction in the number of positive laboratory tests for rotavirus gastroenteritis and associated medical care (hospitalizations, emergency room and clinic visits). ROTATEQ is currently the only rotavirus vaccine used widely in the U.S. The findings were published in this week's (June 26) edition of the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

"We are pleased to participate in the CDC's efforts to monitor the prevalence of rotavirus gastroenteritis and assess the impact of rotavirus vaccination," said Mary Allen Staat, M.D., M.P.H., professor of Pediatrics at the University of Cincinnati, and a member of the Infectious Disease Division at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, one of the primary CDC rotavirus surveillance sites. "Although these data are preliminary, as a pediatrician I am excited about the marked reduction in rotavirus disease we saw this season which coincided with increasing uptake of ROTATEQ."

"The opportunity to make substantive contributions to advancing public health goals is what motivates us at Merck," said Mark Feinberg, M.D., Ph.D., vice president of medical affairs and policy, Merck Vaccines and Infectious Diseases. "We look forward to continuing to work with public health partners around the world to accelerate global access to ROTATEQ, and to ensure that it is used to its fullest potential to limit the significant global burden of rotavirus gastroenteritis."

Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children worldwide, infecting nearly all children by the age of 5, many more than once. While many cases of rotavirus gastroenteritis are mild, some can be severe. In the U.S., it is estimated that rotavirus diarrhea is responsible for 55,000-70,000 hospitalizations, more than 200,000 emergency room visits, approximately 400,000 physician visits annually, and approximately 20-60 deaths per year among children under age 5. Rotavirus infection represents a significant burden in terms of resource use, with estimates of more than $1 billion (2006) in direct and indirect costs, including lost work time for parents, in the U.S. alone. Worldwide, nearly 600,000 children under age 5, approximately one child per minute, die from rotavirus every year, with 80 percent of deaths occurring in low-income countries.

In one analysis in the CDC report, the percentage of tests positive for rotavirus in the 2007-2008 rotavirus season was lower than in the previous 15 years. Only 18 percent of samples tested were positive during the peak of rotavirus season in April 2008 compared with a median of 41 percent (range 31-46 percent) for the previous seasons combined (July 1991 through June 2006). These results were based on data from the National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System, a network of U.S. laboratories of which 70 were included in the 2007-2008 analysis.

In the second analysis in the CDC report, the data showed a marked reduction in hospitalizations and emergency room and clinic visits due to rotavirus gastroenteritis during 2008 compared with 2006 and 2007. Among those children who presented to hospitals, emergency rooms or outpatient clinics with acute gastroenteritis, 207 patients had rotavirus gastroenteritis in 2006, 259 in 2007, and only 18 in 2008. The overall proportion of fecal samples from these children that tested positive for rotavirus was approximately 51 percent in 2006, 54 percent in 2007 and only 6 percent in 2008. These results were based on data from the New Vaccine Surveillance Network, which conducts population-based surveillance for rotavirus gastroenteritis among children less than 3 years of age in three counties in the U.S.

ROTATEQ was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in February 2006 for the prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and young children, caused by serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G4 when administered as a three-dose series to infants between the ages of 6 to 32 weeks. More than 15 million doses of ROTATEQ have been distributed in the U.S. to date though the number of doses administered is not known. In the U.S., ROTATEQ is recommended by the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). In the U.S., the first dose of ROTATEQ should be administered between six and 12 weeks of age, with the subsequent doses administered at four to 10 week intervals. The third dose should not be given after 32 weeks of age.

In the Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial (REST), one of the largest pre-licensure vaccine clinical trials ever conducted, ROTATEQ demonstrated 98 percent efficacy against severe cases of rotavirus gastroenteritis and 74 percent efficacy against all rotavirus gastroenteritis cases caused by serotypes G1, G2, G3 and G4 through the first rotavirus season post-vaccination (n=5,673). Additionally, ROTATEQ reduced hospitalizations by 96 percent (n=68,038) and reduced emergency room visits by 94 percent (n=57,134) caused by these same serotypes up to two years following the third dose. ROTATEQ may not protect all vaccine recipients against rotavirus.

Select safety information about ROTATEQ

ROTATEQ should not be administered to infants with a demonstrated history of hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine. No safety or efficacy data are available for the administration of ROTATEQ to infants who are potentially immunocompromised or to infants with a history of gastrointestinal disorders.

Caution is advised when considering whether to administer RotaTeq to individuals with immunodeficient contacts.

More than 71,000 infants were evaluated in three Phase 3 placebo-controlled clinical trials. Serious adverse events occurred in 2.4 percent of recipients of ROTATEQ when compared to 2.6 percent of placebo recipients within the 42-day period of a dose of ROTATEQ. Hematochezia, reported as a serious adverse event for ROTATEQ compared to placebo, was less than 0.1 percent vs. less than 0.1 percent. The most frequently reported serious adverse events for ROTATEQ compared to placebo were bronchiolitis, gastroenteritis, pneumonia, fever, and urinary tract infection.

In a subset of more than 11,000 infants in these trials, the presence of adverse events was reported for 42 days after each dose. Fever was observed at similar rates in vaccine and placebo recipients (42.6 percent vs. 42.8 percent). Adverse events that occurred at a statistically higher incidence within 42 days of any dose among recipients of ROTATEQ as compared with placebo recipients were diarrhea (24.1 percent vs. 21.3 percent), vomiting (15.2 percent vs. 13.6 percent), otitis media (14.5 percent vs. 13.0 percent), nasopharyngitis (6.9 percent vs. 5.8 percent), and bronchospasm (1.1 percent vs. 0.7 percent).

In post-marketing experience, intussusception (including death) and Kawasaki Disease have been reported in infants who have received ROTATEQ.

About Merck

Merck & Co., Inc. is a global research-driven pharmaceutical company dedicated to putting patients first. Established in 1891, Merck discovers, develops, manufactures and markets vaccines and medicines to address unmet medical needs. The Company devotes extensive efforts to increase access to medicines through far-reaching programs that not only donate Merck medicines but help deliver them to the people who need them. Merck also publishes unbiased health information as a not-for-profit service. For more information, visit www.merck.com.

Forward Looking Statement

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the statements. The forward-looking statements may include statements regarding product development, product potential or financial performance. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those projected. Merck undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect Merck's business, particularly those mentioned in the risk factors and cautionary statements in Item 1A of Merck's Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2007, and in any risk factors or cautionary statements contained in the Company's periodic reports on Form 10-Q or current reports on Form 8-K, which the Company incorporates by reference.

Prescribing information and patient product information for ROTATEQ(R) is attached and is also available at www.rotateq.com.

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

These highlights do not include all the information needed to use RotaTeq safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for RotaTeq.

RotaTeq (Rotavirus Vaccine, Live, Oral, Pentavalent)

Oral Solution

Initial U.S. Approval: 2006

----------------------------INDICATIONS AND USAGE--------------------------

RotaTeq(R) is indicated for the prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and children caused by the G1, G2, G3 and G4 serotypes contained in the vaccine. (1)

----------------------DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION-----------------------

-- FOR ORAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR INJECTION. (2)

-- The vaccination series consists of three ready-to-use liquid doses of RotaTeq administered orally starting at 6 to 12 weeks of age, with the subsequent doses administered at 4- to 10-week intervals. The third dose should not be given after 32 weeks of age. (2)

---------------------DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS--------------------

2 mL, oral solution of 5 live human-bovine reassortant rotaviruses which contains a minimum of 2.0 - 2.8 x 10(6) infectious units (IU) per reassortant dose, depending on the serotype, and not greater than 116 x 10(6) IU per aggregate dose. (3)

------------------------------- CONTRAINDICATIONS -----------------------------

-- A demonstrated history of hypersensitivity to the vaccine or any component of the vaccine. (4)

-----------------------WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS-----------------------

-- No safety or efficacy data are available for the administration of RotaTeq to infants who are potentially immunocompromised (e.g., HIV/AIDS). (5.1)

-- No safety or efficacy data are available for the administration of RotaTeq to infants with a history of gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., active acute gastrointestinal illness, chronic diarrhea, failure to thrive, history of congenital abdominal disorders, abdominal surgery and intussusception). (5.2)

-- Caution is advised when considering whether to administer RotaTeq to individuals with immunodeficient contacts. (5.4)

------------------------------ADVERSE REACTIONS-----------------------------

Most common adverse events included diarrhea, vomiting, irritability, otitis media, nasopharyngitis, and bronchospasm. (6.1)

To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Merck & Co., Inc. at 1-877-888-4231 or FDA at 1-800-822-7967 or www.vaers.hhs.gov(2).

-----------------------USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS----------------------

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants less than 6 weeks of age or greater than 32 weeks of age. Data are available from clinical studies to support the use of RotaTeq in:

-- Pre-term infants according to their age in weeks since birth

-- Infants with controlled gastroesophageal reflux disease. (8.4)

See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and FDA-approved patient labeling.

Revised: 04/2008

FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION: CONTENTS*
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
2.1 Use with Other Vaccines
2.2 Instructions for Use
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Immunocompromised Populations
5.2 Gastrointestinal Illness
5.3 Intussusception
5.4 Shedding and Transmission
5.5 Febrile Illness
5.6 Incomplete Regimen
5.7 Limitations of Vaccine Effectiveness
5.8 Post-Exposure Prophylaxis
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
6.1 Clinical Studies Experience
6.2 Post-Marketing Experience
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
7.1 Concomitant Vaccine Administration
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
8.4 Pediatric Use
11 DESCRIPTION
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
14.1 Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial
14.2 Study 007
14.3 Multiple Rotavirus Seasons
14.4 Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Regardless of Serotype
14.5 Rotavirus Gastroenteritis by Serotype
14.6 Immunogenicity
15 REFERENCES
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
16.1 Storage and Handling
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
17.1 Information for Parents/Guardians
17.2 FDA-Approved Patient Labeling

*Sections or subsections omitted from the full prescribing information are not listed. FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

RotaTeq(1) is indicated for the prevention of rotavirus gastroenteritis in infants and children caused by the serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G4 when administered as a 3-dose series to infants between the ages of 6 to 32 weeks. The first dose of RotaTeq should be administered between 6 and 12 weeks of age (see Dosage and Administration (2)).

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

FOR ORAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR INJECTION.

The vaccination series consists of three ready-to-use liquid doses of RotaTeq administered orally starting at 6 to 12 weeks of age, with the subsequent doses administered at 4- to 10-week intervals. The third dose should not be given after 32 weeks of age (see Clinical Studies (14)).

There are no restrictions on the infant's consumption of food or liquid, including breast milk, either before or after vaccination with RotaTeq.

Do not mix the RotaTeq vaccine with any other vaccines or solutions. Do not reconstitute or dilute (see Dosage and Administration (2.2)).

For storage instructions (see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16.1)).

Each dose is supplied in a container consisting of a squeezable plastic, latex-free dosing tube with a twist-off cap, allowing for direct oral administration. The dosing tube is contained in a pouch (see Dosage and Administration (2.2)).

2.1 Use with Other Vaccines

In clinical trials, RotaTeq was administered concomitantly with other licensed pediatric vaccines (see Adverse Reactions (6.1), Drug Interactions (7.1), and Clinical Studies (14)).

2.2 Instructions for Use
To administer the vaccine:
Tear open the pouch and remove the dosing tube.
Clear the fluid from the dispensing tip by holding tube vertically
and tapping cap.
Open the dosing tube in 2 easy motions:
1. Puncture the dispensing tip by screwing cap clockwise until it
becomes tight.
2. Remove cap by turning it counterclockwise.
Administer dose by gently squeezing liquid into infant's mouth toward
the inner cheek until dosing tube is empty. (A residual drop may
remain in the tip of the tube.)
If for any reason an incomplete dose is administered (e.g., infant
spits or regurgitates the vaccine), a replacement dose is not
recommended, since such dosing was not studied in the clinical
trials. The infant should continue to receive any remaining doses in
the recommended series.
Discard the empty tube and cap in approved biological waste
containers according to local regulations.

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

RotaTeq, 2 mL for oral use, is a ready-to-use solution of live reassortant rotaviruses, containing G1, G2, G3, G4 and P1A(8) which contains a minimum of 2.0 - 2.8 x 10(6) infectious units (IU) per individual reassortant dose, depending on the serotype, and not greater than 116 x 10(6) IU per aggregate dose.

Each dose is supplied in a container consisting of a squeezable plastic, latex-free dosing tube with a twist-off cap, allowing for direct oral administration. The dosing tube is contained in a pouch.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

A demonstrated history of hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine.

Infants who develop symptoms suggestive of hypersensitivity after receiving a dose of RotaTeq should not receive further doses of RotaTeq.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

5.1 Immunocompromised Populations

No safety or efficacy data are available for the administration of RotaTeq to infants who are potentially immunocompromised including:

-- Infants with blood dyscrasias, leukemia, lymphomas of any type, or other malignant neoplasms affecting the bone marrow or lymphatic system.

-- Infants on immunosuppressive therapy (including high-dose systemic corticosteroids). RotaTeq may be administered to infants who are being treated with topical corticosteroids or inhaled steroids.

-- Infants with primary and acquired immunodeficiency states, including HIV/AIDS or other clinical manifestations of infection with human immunodeficiency viruses; cellular immune deficiencies; and hypogammaglobulinemic and dysgammaglobulinemic states. There are insufficient data from the clinical trials to support administration of RotaTeq to infants with indeterminate HIV status who are born to mothers with HIV/AIDS.

-- Infants who have received a blood transfusion or blood products, including immunoglobulins within 42 days.

No data are available regarding potential vaccine virus transmission from vaccine recipient to non-vaccinated household or other contacts (see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)).

5.2 Gastrointestinal Illness

No safety or efficacy data are available for administration of RotaTeq to infants with a history of gastrointestinal disorders including infants with active acute gastrointestinal illness, infants with chronic diarrhea and failure to thrive, and infants with a history of congenital abdominal disorders, abdominal surgery, and intussusception. Caution is advised when considering administration of RotaTeq to these infants.

5.3 Intussusception

Following administration of a previously licensed live rhesus rotavirus-based vaccine, an increased risk of intussusception was observed.(1) In the Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial (REST) (n=69,625), the data did not show an increased risk of intussusception for RotaTeq when compared to placebo. In post-marketing experience, cases of intussusception have been reported in temporal association with RotaTeq. (See Adverse Reactions (6.1 and 6.2).)

5.4 Shedding and Transmission

Shedding was evaluated among a subset of subjects in REST 4 to 6 days after each dose and among all subjects who submitted a stool antigen rotavirus positive sample at any time. RotaTeq was shed in the stools of 32 of 360 (8.9%, 95% CI (6.2%, 12.3%)) vaccine recipients tested after dose 1; 0 of 249 (0.0%, 95% CI (0.0%, 1.5%)) vaccine recipients tested after dose 2; and in 1 of 385 (0.3%, 95% CI (less than0.1%, 1.4%)) vaccine recipients after dose 3. In phase 3 studies, shedding was observed as early as 1 day and as late as 15 days after a dose. Transmission was not evaluated.

Caution is advised when considering whether to administer RotaTeq to individuals with immunodeficient close contacts such as:

-- Individuals with malignancies or who are otherwise immunocompromised; or

-- Individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapy.

RotaTeq is a solution of live reassortant rotaviruses and can potentially be transmitted to persons who have contact with the vaccine. The potential risk of transmission of vaccine virus should be weighed against the risk of acquiring and transmitting natural rotavirus.

5.5 Febrile Illness

Febrile illness may be reason for delaying use of RotaTeq except when, in the opinion of the physician, withholding the vaccine entails a greater risk. Low-grade fever (less than100.5(degree)F (38.1(degree)C)) itself and mild upper respiratory infection do not preclude vaccination with RotaTeq.

5.6 Incomplete Regimen

The clinical studies were not designed to assess the level of protection provided by only one or two doses of RotaTeq.

5.7 Limitations of Vaccine Effectiveness

RotaTeq may not protect all vaccine recipients against rotavirus.

5.8 Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

No clinical data are available for RotaTeq when administered after exposure to rotavirus.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

6.1 Clinical Studies Experience

71,725 infants were evaluated in 3 placebo-controlled clinical trials including 36,165 infants in the group that received RotaTeq and 35,560 infants in the group that received placebo. Parents/guardians were contacted on days 7, 14, and 42 after each dose regarding intussusception and any other serious adverse events. The racial distribution was as follows: White (69% in both groups); Hispanic-American (14% in both groups); Black (8% in both groups); Multiracial (5% in both groups); Asian (2% in both groups); Native American (RotaTeq 2%, placebo 1%); and Other (less than1% in both groups). The gender distribution was 51% male and 49% female in both vaccination groups.

Because clinical trials are conducted under conditions that may not be typical of those observed in clinical practice, the adverse reaction rates presented below may not be reflective of those observed in clinical practice.

Serious Adverse Events

Serious adverse events occurred in 2.4% of recipients of RotaTeq when compared to 2.6% of placebo recipients within the 42-day period of a dose in the phase 3 clinical studies of RotaTeq. The most frequently reported serious adverse events for RotaTeq compared to placebo were:
bronchiolitis (0.6% RotaTeq vs. 0.7% Placebo),
gastroenteritis (0.2% RotaTeq vs. 0.3% Placebo),
pneumonia (0.2% RotaTeq vs. 0.2% Placebo),
fever (0.1% RotaTeq vs. 0.1% Placebo), and
urinary tract infection (0.1% RotaTeq vs. 0.1% Placebo).

Deaths

Across the clinical studies, 52 deaths were reported. There were 25 deaths in the RotaTeq recipients compared to 27 deaths in the placebo recipients. The most commonly reported cause of death was sudden infant death syndrome, which was observed in 8 recipients of RotaTeq and 9 placebo recipients.

Intussusception

In REST, 34,837 vaccine recipients and 34,788 placebo recipients were monitored by active surveillance to identify potential cases of intussusception at 7, 14, and 42 days after each dose, and every 6 weeks thereafter for 1 year after the first dose.

For the primary safety outcome, cases of intussusception occurring within 42 days of any dose, there were 6 cases among RotaTeq recipients and 5 cases among placebo recipients (see Table 1). The data did not suggest an increased risk of intussusception relative to placebo. Table 1 Confirmed cases of intussusception in recipients of RotaTeq as compared with placebo recipients during REST
RotaTeq Placebo
(n=34,837) (n=34,788)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Confirmed intussusception cases within 42 days
of any dose 6 5
Relative risk (95% CI) * 1.6 (0.4, 6.4)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Confirmed intussusception cases within 365
days of dose 1 13 15
Relative risk (95% CI) 0.9 (0.4, 1.9)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Relative risk and 95% confidence interval based upon group sequential design stopping criteria employed in REST.

Among vaccine recipients, there were no confirmed cases of intussusception within the 42-day period after the first dose, which was the period of highest risk for the rhesus rotavirus-based product (see Table 2). Table 2 Intussusception cases by day range in relation to dose in REST
Dose 1 Dose 2 Dose 3 Any Dose
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Day
Range RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo
----------------------------------------------------------------------
1-7 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0
----------------------------------------------------------------------
1-14 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1
----------------------------------------------------------------------
1-21 0 0 3 0 0 1 3 1
----------------------------------------------------------------------
1-42 0 1 4 1 2 3 6 5
----------------------------------------------------------------------

All of the children who developed intussusception recovered without sequelae with the exception of a 9-month-old male who developed intussusception 98 days after dose 3 and died of post-operative sepsis. There was a single case of intussusception among 2,470 recipients of RotaTeq in a 7-month-old male in the phase 1 and 2 studies (716 placebo recipients).

Hematochezia

Hematochezia reported as an adverse experience occurred in 0.6% (39/6,130) of vaccine and 0.6% (34/5,560) of placebo recipients within 42 days of any dose. Hematochezia reported as a serious adverse experience occurred in less than0.1% (4/36,150) of vaccine and less than0.1% (7/35,536) of placebo recipients within 42 days of any dose.

Seizures

All seizures reported in the phase 3 trials of RotaTeq (by vaccination group and interval after dose) are shown in Table 3. Table 3 Seizures reported by day range in relation to any dose in the phase 3 trials of RotaTeq
Day range 1-7 1-14 1-42
----------------------------------------------------------------------
RotaTeq 10 15 33
Placebo 5 8 24
----------------------------------------------------------------------

Seizures reported as serious adverse experiences occurred in less than0.1% (27/36,150) of vaccine and less than0.1% (18/35,536) of placebo recipients (not significant). Ten febrile seizures were reported as serious adverse experiences, 5 were observed in vaccine recipients and 5 in placebo recipients.

Kawasaki Disease

In the phase 3 clinical trials, infants were followed for up to 42 days of vaccine dose. Kawasaki disease was reported in 5 of 36,150 vaccine recipients and in 1 of 35,536 placebo recipients with unadjusted relative risk 4.9 (95% CI 0.6, 239.1).

Most Common Adverse Events

Solicited Adverse Events

Detailed safety information was collected from 11,711 infants (6,138 recipients of RotaTeq) which included a subset of subjects in REST and all subjects from Studies 007 and 009 (Detailed Safety Cohort). A Vaccination Report Card was used by parents/guardians to record the child's temperature and any episodes of diarrhea and vomiting on a daily basis during the first week following each vaccination. Table 4 summarizes the frequencies of these adverse events and irritability. Table 4 Solicited adverse experiences within the first week after doses 1, 2, and 3 (Detailed Safety Cohort)
Adverse experience Dose 1 Dose 2 Dose 3
RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Elevated temperature* n=5,616 n=5,077 n=5,215 n=4,725 n=4,865 n=4,382
17.1% 16.2% 20.0% 19.4% 18.2% 17.6%
----------------------------------------------------------------------
n=6,130 n=5,560 n=5,703 n=5,173 n=5,496 n=4,989
Vomiting 6.7% 5.4% 5.0% 4.4% 3.6% 3.2%

Diarrhea 10.4% 9.1% 8.6% 6.4% 6.1% 5.4%

Irritability 7.1% 7.1% 6.0% 6.5% 4.3% 4.5%
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Temperature (greater than=)100.5(degree)F (38.1(degree)C) rectal equivalent obtained by adding 1 degree F to otic and oral temperatures and 2 degrees F to axillary temperatures

Other Adverse Events

Parents/guardians of the 11,711 infants were also asked to report the presence of other events on the Vaccination Report Card for 42 days after each dose.

Fever was observed at similar rates in vaccine (N=6,138) and placebo (N=5,573) recipients (42.6% vs. 42.8%). Adverse events that occurred at a statistically higher incidence (i.e., 2-sided p-value less than0.05) within the 42 days of any dose among recipients of RotaTeq as compared with placebo recipients are shown in Table 5. Table 5 Adverse events that occurred at a statistically higher incidence within 42 days of any dose among recipients of RotaTeq as compared with placebo recipients
RotaTeq Placebo
Adverse event N=6,138 N=5,573
---------------------------------------------------------------
n (%) n (%)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Diarrhea 1,479 (24.1%) 1,186 (21.3%)
Vomiting 929 (15.2%) 758 (13.6%)
Otitis media 887 (14.5%) 724 (13.0%)
Nasopharyngitis 422 (6.9%) 325 (5.8%)
Bronchospasm 66 (1.1%) 40 (0.7%)
---------------------------------------------------------------

Safety in Pre-Term Infants

RotaTeq or placebo was administered to 2,070 pre-term infants (25 to 36 weeks gestational age, median 34 weeks) according to their age in weeks since birth in REST. All pre-term infants were followed for serious adverse experiences; a subset of 308 infants was monitored for all adverse experiences. There were 4 deaths throughout the study, 2 among vaccine recipients (1 SIDS and 1 motor vehicle accident) and 2 among placebo recipients (1 SIDS and 1 unknown cause). No cases of intussusception were reported. Serious adverse experiences occurred in 5.5% of vaccine and 5.8% of placebo recipients. The most common serious adverse experience was bronchiolitis, which occurred in 1.4% of vaccine and 2.0% of placebo recipients. Parents/guardians were asked to record the child's temperature and any episodes of vomiting and diarrhea daily for the first week following vaccination. The frequencies of these adverse experiences and irritability within the week after dose 1 are summarized in Table 6. Table 6 Solicited adverse experiences within the first week of doses 1, 2, and 3 among pre-term infants
Dose 1 Dose 2 Dose 3
Adverse event RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo
----------------------------------------------------------------------
N=127 N=133 N=124 N=121 N=115 N=108
Elevated temperature* 18.1% 17.3% 25.0% 28.1% 14.8% 20.4%
----------------------------------------------------------------------
N=154 N=154 N=137 N=137 N=135 N=129
Vomiting 5.8% 7.8% 2.9% 2.2% 4.4% 4.7%

Diarrhea 6.5% 5.8% 7.3% 7.3% 3.7% 3.9%

Irritability 3.9% 5.2% 2.9% 4.4% 8.1% 5.4%
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Temperature =>100.5(degree)F (38.1(degree)C) rectal equivalent obtained by adding 1 degree F to otic and oral temperatures and 2 degrees F to axillary temperatures

6.2 Post-Marketing Experience

The following adverse events have been identified during post-approval use of RotaTeq from reports to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS).

Reporting of adverse events following immunization to VAERS is voluntary, and the number of doses of vaccine administered is not known; therefore, it is not always possible to reliably estimate the adverse event frequency or establish a causal relationship to vaccine exposure using VAERS data.

In post-marketing experience, the following adverse events have been reported in infants who have received RotaTeq:
Gastrointestinal disorders:
Intussusception (including death)
Hematochezia
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:
Urticaria
Infections and infestations:
Kawasaki disease

Reporting Adverse Events

Parents or guardians should be instructed to report any adverse reactions to their health care provider.

Health care providers should report all adverse events to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System (VAERS).

VAERS accepts all reports of suspected adverse events after the administration of any vaccine, including but not limited to the reporting of events required by the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act of 1986. For information or a copy of the vaccine reporting form, call the VAERS toll-free number at 1-800-822-7967 or report on line to www.vaers.hhs.gov.(2)

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

Immunosuppressive therapies including irradiation, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, cytotoxic drugs and corticosteroids (used in greater than physiologic doses), may reduce the immune response to vaccines.

7.1 Concomitant Vaccine Administration

In clinical trials, RotaTeq was administered concomitantly with diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and acellular pertussis (DTaP), inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV), H. influenzae type b conjugate (Hib), hepatitis B vaccine, and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (see Clinical Studies (14)). The safety data available are in the ADVERSE REACTIONS section (see Adverse Reactions (6.1)).

There was no evidence for reduced antibody responses to the diphtheria or tetanus toxoid components of DTaP or to the other vaccines that were concomitantly administered with RotaTeq. However, insufficient immunogenicity data are available to confirm lack of interference of immune responses when RotaTeq is concomitantly administered with childhood vaccines to prevent pertussis.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C: Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with RotaTeq. It is also not known whether RotaTeq can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. RotaTeq is not indicated in women of child-bearing age and should not be administered to pregnant females.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants less than 6 weeks of age or greater than 32 weeks of age.

Data are available from clinical studies to support the use of RotaTeq in pre-term infants according to their age in weeks since birth (see Adverse Reactions (6.1)).

Data are available from clinical studies to support the use of RotaTeq in infants with controlled gastroesophageal reflux disease.

11 DESCRIPTION

RotaTeq is a live, oral pentavalent vaccine that contains 5 live reassortant rotaviruses. The rotavirus parent strains of the reassortants were isolated from human and bovine hosts. Four reassortant rotaviruses express one of the outer capsid proteins (G1, G2, G3, or G4) from the human rotavirus parent strain and the attachment protein (serotype P7) from the bovine rotavirus parent strain. The fifth reassortant virus expresses the attachment protein, P1A (genotype P(8)), herein referred to as serotype P1A(8), from the human rotavirus parent strain and the outer capsid protein of serotype G6 from the bovine rotavirus parent strain (see Table 7). Table 7
Reassortant
Human Bovine Outer
Rotavirus Rotavirus Surface
Parent Parent Protein Minimum
Strains Strain and Composition Dose
and Outer Outer (Human Levels
Surface Surface Rotavirus (10(6)
Name of Protein Protein Component infectious
Reassortant Compositions Composition in Bold) units)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
G1 WI79 - G1P7(5)
G1P1A(8) 2.2
--------------------------------- -------------------------
G2 SC2 - G2P2(6) G2P7(5) 2.8
--------------------------------- -------------------------
G3 WI78 - WC3 - G6, G3P7(5)
G3P1A(8) P7(5) 2.2
--------------------------------- -------------------------
G4 BrB - G4P2(6) G4P7(5) 2.0
--------------------------------- -------------------------
P1A(8) WI79 - G6P1A(8)
G1P1A(8) 2.3
----------------------------------------------------------------------

The reassortants are propagated in Vero cells using standard cell culture techniques in the absence of antifungal agents.

The reassortants are suspended in a buffered stabilizer solution. Each vaccine dose contains sucrose, sodium citrate, sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate, sodium hydroxide, polysorbate 80, cell culture media, and trace amounts of fetal bovine serum. RotaTeq contains no preservatives.

RotaTeq is a pale yellow clear liquid that may have a pink tint.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children, with over 95% of these children infected by the time they are 5 years old.(3) The most severe cases occur among infants and young children between 6 months and 24 months of age.(4)

12.1 Mechanism of Action

The exact immunologic mechanism by which RotaTeq protects against rotavirus gastroenteritis is unknown (see Clinical Studies (14.6)). RotaTeq is a live viral vaccine that replicates in the small intestine and induces immunity.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

RotaTeq has not been evaluated for its carcinogenic or mutagenic potential or its potential to impair fertility.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

Overall, 72,324 infants were randomized in 3 placebo-controlled, phase 3 studies conducted in 11 countries on 3 continents. The data demonstrating the efficacy of RotaTeq in preventing rotavirus gastroenteritis come from 6,983 of these infants from the US (including Navajo and White Mountain Apache Nations) and Finland who were enrolled in 2 of these studies: REST and Study 007. The third trial, Study 009, provided clinical evidence supporting the consistency of manufacture and contributed data to the overall safety evaluation.

The racial distribution of the efficacy subset was as follows: White (RotaTeq 68%, placebo 69%); Hispanic-American (RotaTeq 10%, placebo 9%); Black (2% in both groups); Multiracial (RotaTeq 4%, placebo 5%); Asian (less than1% in both groups); Native American (RotaTeq 15%, placebo 14%); and Other (less than1% in both groups). The gender distribution was 52% male and 48% female in both vaccination groups.

The efficacy evaluations in these studies included: 1) Prevention of any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis; 2) Prevention of severe rotavirus gastroenteritis, as defined by a clinical scoring system; and 3) Reduction in hospitalizations due to rotavirus gastroenteritis.

The vaccine was given as a three-dose series to healthy infants with the first dose administered between 6 and 12 weeks of age and followed by two additional doses administered at 4- to 10-week intervals. The age of infants receiving the third dose was 32 weeks of age or less. Oral polio vaccine administration was not permitted; however, other childhood vaccines could be concomitantly administered. Breast-feeding was permitted in all studies.

The case definition for rotavirus gastroenteritis used to determine vaccine efficacy required that a subject meet both of the following clinical and laboratory criteria: (1) greater than or equal to 3 watery or looser-than-normal stools within a 24-hour period and/or forceful vomiting; and (2) rotavirus antigen detection by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) in a stool specimen taken within 14 days of onset of symptoms. The severity of rotavirus acute gastroenteritis was determined by a clinical scoring system that took into account the intensity and duration of symptoms of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and behavioral changes.

The primary efficacy analyses included cases of rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G4 that occurred at least 14 days after the third dose through the first rotavirus season post vaccination.

Analyses were also done to evaluate the efficacy of RotaTeq against rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G4 at any time following the first dose through the first rotavirus season postvaccination among infants who received at least one vaccination (Intent-to-treat, ITT).

14.1 Rotavirus Efficacy and Safety Trial

Primary efficacy against any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by naturally occurring serotypes G1, G2, G3, or G4 through the first rotavirus season after vaccination was 74.0% (95% CI: 66.8, 79.9) and the ITT efficacy was 60.0% (95% CI: 51.5, 67.1). Primary efficacy against severe rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by naturally occurring serotypes G1, G2, G3, or G4 through the first rotavirus season after vaccination was 98.0% (95% CI: 88.3, 100.0), and ITT efficacy was 96.4% (95% CI: 86.2, 99.6). See Table 8. Table 8 Efficacy of RotaTeq against any grade of severity of and severe* G1-4 rotavirus gastroenteritis through the first rotavirus season postvaccination in REST
Intent-to-
Per Protocol Treat+
RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subjects vaccinated 2,834 2,839 2,834 2,839
Gastroenteritis cases
Any grade of severity 82 315 150 371
Severe* 1 51 2 55
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Efficacy estimate % and (95% confidence interval)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Any grade of severity 74.0 60.0
(66.8, 79.9) (51.5, 67.1)
Severe* 98.0 96.4
(88.3, 100.0) (86.2, 99.6)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Severe gastroenteritis defined by a clinical scoring system based on the intensity and duration of symptoms of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and behavioral changes

+ITT analysis includes all subjects in the efficacy cohort who received at least one dose of vaccine.

The efficacy of RotaTeq against severe disease was also demonstrated by a reduction in hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis among all subjects enrolled in REST. RotaTeq reduced hospitalizations for rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G4 through the first two years after the third dose by 95.8% (95% CI: 90.5, 98.2). The ITT efficacy in reducing hospitalizations was 94.7% (95% CI: 89.3, 97.3) as shown in Table 9. Table 9 Efficacy of RotaTeq in reducing G1-4 rotavirus-related hospitalizations in REST
Per Protocol Intent-to-
Treat*
RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subjects vaccinated 34,035 34,003 34,035 34,003
Number of hospitalizations 6 144 10 187
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Efficacy estimate % and 95.8 94.7
(95% confidence interval) (90.5, 98.2) (89.3, 97.3)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*ITT analysis includes all subjects who received at least one dose of vaccine.

14.2 Study 007

Primary efficacy against any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by naturally occurring serotypes G1, G2, G3, or G4 through the first rotavirus season after vaccination was 72.5% (95% CI: 50.6, 85.6) and the ITT efficacy was 58.4% (95% CI: 33.8, 74.5). Primary efficacy against severe rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by naturally occurring serotypes G1, G2, G3, or G4 through the first rotavirus season after vaccination was 100% (95% CI: 13.0, 100.0) and ITT efficacy against severe rotavirus disease was 100%, (95% CI: 30.2, 100.0) as shown in Table 10. Table 10 Efficacy of RotaTeq against any grade of severity of and severe* G1-4 rotavirus gastroenteritis through the first rotavirus season postvaccination in Study 007
Intent-to-
Per Protocol Treat+
RotaTeq Placebo RotaTeq Placebo
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subjects vaccinated 650 660 650 660
Gastroenteritis cases
Any grade of severity 15 54 27 64
Severe* 0 6 0 7
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Efficacy estimate % and (95% confidence interval)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Any grade of severity 72.5 58.4
(50.6, 85.6) (33.8, 74.5)
Severe* 100.0 100.0
(13.0, 100.0) (30.2, 100.0)
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Severe gastroenteritis defined by a clinical scoring system based on the intensity and duration of symptoms of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and behavioral change

+ITT analysis includes all subjects in the efficacy cohort who received at least one dose of vaccine.

14.3 Multiple Rotavirus Seasons

The efficacy of RotaTeq through a second rotavirus season was evaluated in a single study (REST). Efficacy against any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis caused by rotavirus serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G4 through the two rotavirus seasons after vaccination was 71.3% (95% CI: 64.7, 76.9). The efficacy of RotaTeq in preventing cases occurring only during the second rotavirus season postvaccination was 62.6% (95% CI: 44.3, 75.4). The efficacy of RotaTeq beyond the second season postvaccination was not evaluated.

14.4 Rotavirus Gastroenteritis Regardless of Serotype

The rotavirus serotypes identified in the efficacy subset of REST and Study 007 were G1P1A(8); G2P1(4); G3P1A(8); G4P1A(8); and G9P1A(8).

In REST, the efficacy of RotaTeq against any grade of severity of naturally occurring rotavirus gastroenteritis regardless of serotype was 71.8% (95% CI: 64.5, 77.8) and efficacy against severe rotavirus disease was 98.0% (95% CI: 88.3, 99.9). The ITT efficacy starting at dose 1 was 50.9% (95% CI: 41.6, 58.9) for any grade of severity of rotavirus disease and was 96.4% (95% CI: 86.3, 99.6) for severe rotavirus disease.

In Study 007, the primary efficacy of RotaTeq against any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis regardless of serotype was 72.7% (95% CI: 51.9, 85.4) and efficacy against severe rotavirus disease was 100% (95% CI: 12.7, 100). The ITT efficacy starting at dose 1 was 48.0% (95% CI: 21.6, 66.1) for any grade of severity of rotavirus disease and was 100% (95% CI: 30.4, 100.0) for severe rotavirus disease.

14.5 Rotavirus Gastroenteritis by Serotype

The efficacy against any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis by serotype in the REST efficacy cohort is shown in Table 11. Table 11 Serotype-specific efficacy of RotaTeq against any grade of severity of rotavirus gastroenteritis among infants in the REST efficacy cohort through the first rotavirus season postvaccination (Per Protocol)
Number of cases
% Efficacy
RotaTeq Placebo (95% Confidence
Serotype identified by PCR (N=2,834) (N=2,839) Interval)
-------------------------------- -----------------
Serotypes present in RotaTeq
----------------------------------------------------------------------
G1P1A(8) 72 286 74.9 (67.3, 80.9)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
G2P1(4) 6 17 63.4 (2.6, 88.2)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
G3P1A(8) 1 6 NS
----------------------------------------------------------------------
G4P1A(8) 3 6 NS
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Serotypes not present in RotaTeq
----------------------------------------------------------------------
G9P1A(8) 1 3 NS
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Unidentified* 11 15 NS
----------------------------------------------------------------------
N=number vaccinated
NS=not significant
----------------------------------------------------------------------

*Includes rotavirus antigen-positive samples in which the specific serotype could not be identified by PCR

In a separate post hoc analysis of health care utilization data from 68,038 infants (RotaTeq 34,035 and placebo 34,003) in REST, using a case definition that included culture confirmation, hospitalization and emergency departments visits due to G9P1A(8) rotavirus gastroenteritis were reduced (RotaTeq 0 cases: placebo 14 cases) by 100% (95% CI: 69.6%, 100.0%).

14.6 Immunogenicity

A relationship between antibody responses to RotaTeq and protection against rotavirus gastroenteritis has not been established. In phase 3 studies, 92.9% to 100% of 439 recipients of RotaTeq achieved a 3-fold or more rise in serum anti-rotavirus IgA after a three-dose regimen when compared to 12.3%-20.0% of 397 placebo recipients.

15 REFERENCES
1. Murphy TV, Gargiullo PM, Massoudi MS et al. Intussusception among
infants given an oral rotavirus vaccine. N Engl J Med
2001;344:564-572.

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. General recommendations
on immunization: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on
Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the American Academy of Family
Physicians (AAFP). MMWR 2002;51(RR-2):1-35.

3. Parashar UD et al. Global illness and deaths caused by rotavirus
disease in children. Emerg Infect Dis 2003;9(5):565-572.

4. Parashar UD, Holman RC, Clarke MJ, Bresee JS, Glass RI.
Hospitalizations associated with rotavirus diarrhea in the United
States, 1993 through 1995: surveillance based on the new ICD-9-CM
rotavirus-specific diagnostic code. J Infect Dis 1998;177:13-7.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

No. 4047 -- RotaTeq, 2 mL, a solution for oral use, is a pale yellow clear liquid that may have a pink tint. It is supplied as follows:

NDC 0006-4047-31 package of 1 individually pouched single-dose tube

NDC 0006-4047-41 package of 10 individually pouched single-dose tubes.

16.1 Storage and Handling

Store and transport refrigerated at 2-8(degree)C (36-46(degree)F). RotaTeq should be administered as soon as possible after being removed from refrigeration. For information regarding stability under conditions other than those recommended, call 1-800-MERCK-90.

Protect from light.

RotaTeq should be discarded in approved biological waste containers according to local regulations.

The product must be used before the expiration date.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

(See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling (17.2).)

17.1 Information for Parents/Guardians

Parents or guardians should be given a copy of the required vaccine information and be given the "Patient Information" appended to this insert. Parents and/or guardians should be encouraged to read the patient information that describes the benefits and risks associated with the vaccine and ask any questions they may have during the visit. See PRECAUTIONS and Patient Information.

Issued April 2008

Printed in USA

9714306

17.2 FDA-Approved Patient Labeling

(1) Registered trademark of MERCK & CO., Inc., Whitehouse Station, New Jersey 08889 USA COPYRIGHT (C) 2006, 2007 MERCK & CO., Inc. All rights reserved

RotaTeq(R) (rotavirus vaccine, live, oral, pentavalent) 9714306

9714306 Patient Information RotaTeq(R)* (pronounced "RO-tuh-tek") rotavirus vaccine, live, oral, pentavalent

Read this information carefully before your child receives each dose of RotaTeq in case any information about the vaccine changes. Your child will need 3 doses of the vaccine over the course of a few months. This leaflet is a summary of certain information about RotaTeq and does not take the place of talking with your child's doctor, who can give you more complete information written for health care professionals.

What is RotaTeq and How Does it Work?

RotaTeq helps protect against an infection that nearly all children get called rotavirus. Rotavirus can cause fever, vomiting, and diarrhea which may be severe and can lead to loss of body fluids (dehydration), hospitalization and even death in some children. RotaTeq may not fully protect all children that get the vaccine, and if your child already has the virus it will not help them.

What should I tell the doctor before my child gets RotaTeq?

Tell your doctor if your child:

-- Has illness with fever. A mild fever or cold by itself is not reason to delay taking the vaccine.

-- Has diarrhea or has been vomiting.

-- Has not been gaining weight or is not growing as expected.

-- Has a blood disorder.

-- Has any type of cancer.

-- Has a weak immune system because of a disease (this includes HIV/AIDS).

-- Gets treatment or takes medicines that may weaken the immune system (such as high doses of steroids) or has received a blood transfusion or blood products within the past 42 days.

-- Was born with gastrointestinal problems, or has had a blockage or abdominal surgery.

-- Has regular close contact with a member of family or household who has a weak immune system such as someone with cancer or someone taking medicines that weaken their immune system.

What other important information should I know?

Call your child's doctor right away if, following any dose of RotaTeq, your child has vomiting, diarrhea, severe stomach pain, blood in their stool or change in their bowel movements as these may be signs of intussusception. Intussusception is a serious and life-threatening event that occurs when a part of the intestine gets blocked or twisted and it requires immediate medical attention. Intussusception can occur when no vaccine has been given and the cause is usually unknown.

Since FDA approval, reports of infants with intussusception have been received by Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Intussusception occurred days and sometimes weeks after vaccination. Some of these infants required hospitalization and surgery on their intestine or a special enema to treat this problem. Death due to intussusception has also occurred.

Before FDA approval, RotaTeq was studied in 35,000 infants and no increased risk of intussusception was found compared to 35,000 infants who did not receive RotaTeq.

Contact your doctor if your child has any symptoms of intussusception, even if it has been several weeks since the last vaccine dose.

Who should not receive RotaTeq?

Your child should not get the vaccine if:

-- He or she had an allergic reaction after getting a dose of this vaccine.

-- He or she is allergic to any of the ingredients of the vaccine. A list of ingredients can be found at the end of this leaflet.

What are the possible side effects of RotaTeq?

The most common side effects reported after taking RotaTeq were diarrhea, vomiting, fever, runny nose and sore throat, wheezing or coughing, and ear infection.

Other reported side effects include hives.

These are NOT all the possible side effects of RotaTeq. You can ask your doctor or health care provider for a more complete list.

If your child seems to be having any side effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet, please call your doctor or other health care provider. If the condition continues or worsens, you should seek medical attention.

You, as a parent or guardian, may also report any adverse reactions to your child's health care provider or directly to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). The VAERS toll-free number is 1-800-822-7967 or report online to www.vaers.hhs.gov.

Can RotaTeq be given with other vaccines?

Your child may get RotaTeq at the same time as other childhood vaccines.

How is RotaTeq given?

The vaccine is given by mouth. Your child will receive 3 doses of the vaccine. The first dose is given when your child is 6 to 12 weeks of age, the second dose is given 4 to 10 weeks later and the third dose is given 4 to 10 weeks after the second dose. The last (third) dose should be given to your child by 32 weeks of age.

Your health care provider will gently squeeze the vaccine into your child's mouth (see Figure 1). Your infant may spit out some or all of it. If this happens, the dose does not need to be given again during that visit.

Figure 1:

What do I do if my child misses a dose of RotaTeq?

All 3 doses of the vaccine should be given to your child by 32 weeks of age. Your health care provider will tell you when your child should come for the follow-up doses. It is important to keep those appointments. If you forget or are not able to go back at the planned time, ask your health care provider for advice.

What else should I know about RotaTeq?

This leaflet gives a summary of certain information about the vaccine. If you have any questions or concerns about RotaTeq, talk to your health care provider. You can also visit www.rotateq.com.

What are the ingredients in RotaTeq?

Active Ingredient: 5 live rotavirus strains (G1, G2, G3, G4, and P1).

Inactive Ingredients: sucrose, sodium citrate, sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate, sodium hydroxide, polysorbate 80 and also fetal bovine serum.

Rx only

Issued April 2008

* Registered trademark of MERCK & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, 08889 USA COPYRIGHT (C) 2008 MERCK & Co., Inc. All rights reserved