Products
mRNA-1273 enters the market as a white dispersion in multidose containers. It was licensed in the EU on January 6, 2021, and in many countries on January 12, 2021. The vaccine has been studied in a clinical trial involving more than 30,000 participants. The unopened multi-dose vial can be stored at -15 °C to -25 °C for 7 months. In the refrigerator (2 °C to 8 °C) it is stable for 30 days. Moderna vaccine is produced at Lonza AG in Visp in the canton of Valais, among other facilities.
Structure and properties
The drug consists of lipid nanoparticles containing nucleoside-modified mRNA (messenger RNA) encoding the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. The spike protein contains two proline substitutions to stabilize it in the conformation before fusion.
Effects
After administration, the mRNA (ATC J07BX03) is taken up by cells and translated to ribosomes. This produces the spike protein, which triggers an immune response leading to the formation of protective antibodies. This results in immunity to the SARS-CoV-2 and Covid-19. mRNA does not enter the nucleus and does not interact with the human genome. It is not replicated.
Indications
As a vaccine for active immunization and for prevention of Covid-19 starting at age 18 years.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is administered as an intramuscular injection usually into the deltoid of the upper arm. Two doses of 0.5 ml each are required 28 days apart.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Acute febrile illness or infection
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Studies of interactions with other drugs have not been performed.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include:
- Pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site.
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle pain, joint pain
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling or pressure pain in the armpits
- Fever
Anaphylaxis has been reported.
