Do not stop or change your medication without speaking to a pharmacist or healthcare professional.

This is a historical report — it no longer reflects this drug's current status. Current status: Permanently Discontinued. View this drug's full profile page →

Shortage Avoided

ZOSTAVAX II

MERCK CANADA INC

This is a national manufacturer shortage report. It does not confirm whether the product is unavailable at your local pharmacy — call ahead or ask your pharmacist.

Quick answers

Is ZOSTAVAX II discontinued in Canada?

Yes. The manufacturer has reported to Health Canada that ZOSTAVAX II 19400PFU has been permanently discontinued (last updated October 15, 2022). It is not expected to come back, so talk to your pharmacist or doctor about an alternative.

Why is ZOSTAVAX II not available?

The reason the manufacturer reported: Business reasons.

Can I still get this?Check with your pharmacist
StatusShortage Avoided
Same-ingredient products on fileNone found
Affected strength19400PFU
Last updated2017-05-17

What this means

Does this mean the shortage is completely over everywhere?

It means this specific report has been marked resolved or was avoided — but some individual pharmacies may still take time to restock.

What should I do?

If your pharmacy still doesn't have it, check with them directly — supply is expected to be normalizing.

DIN

02375516

Strength

19400PFU

Dosage Form

POWDER FOR SUSPENSION

Route

SUBCUTANEOUS

Active Ingredient

VARICELLA-ZOSTER VIRUS VACCINE LIVE ATTENUATED

Tier

Unrated

Last Updated

2017-05-17

Reason for Shortage

Demand increase for the drug.

Past Reports for This Drug

ZOSTAVAX II has 2 shortage/discontinuation reports on file — this is one of them.