) is a vaccine used to provide protection against measles
, and varicella (chickenpox
). It is approved for use in individuals 12 months through 12 years of age.
(Click ProQuad Uses for more information on what the vaccine is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Thimerosal Content and Other Concerns
ProQuad does not contain thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative. People who are concerned about exposure to this substance can be confident that this vaccine does not even contain trace amounts of thimerosal. Some people are also concerned about the aluminum content of vaccines. ProQuad does not contain any aluminum.
This vaccine is grown in animal and human fetal components. Specifically, parts of the vaccine are grown in chick embryo cells, fetal bovine (cow) serum, and a cell line developed from an aborted human fetus.
ProQuad is made by Merck & Co., Inc.
ProQuad is a live attenuated vaccine. This means that it contains living viruses, which have been altered in such a way as to prevent them from actually causing diseases. However, the body's immune system still responds to the viruses, providing future protection from the diseases.
In general, live vaccines provide better protection from infections compared to other types of vaccines, but they can actually cause the diseases in rare cases, particularly in people who have weakened immune systems.