Shingrix and Headaches: What Users Say

• Bea...
• August 26, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Wednesday, August 12, 2020, 2nd Shingrix vaccine. 1st in March was pretty much uneventful. Sunday afternoon dizziness started. Headaches, night sweats, heavy legs, big toe twitching, legs shaking, cold even though house was 80°F. Felt out of it. No appetite. Eyes blurry. Sneezing. Ears ringing. Dry cough. Bad taste in mouth. Fatigue worst days 5 & 6. Itching, burning skin, slight rash on around day 8. Random muscle pains and spasms. Super ANXIOUS, but I tend to be an overly stressed out type. Heart racing. Stomach not good day 10 & 11. No appetite, abdominal discomfort. Diarrhea on day 11 with foul smell. Day 11: Slight night sweats, super dizzy. Day 13: BETTER. Not 100%, but I’m feeling better. All lab work negative. I searched forums like this one to find out why I felt so horrible, other people confirmed similar responses to Shingrix. I wish more people would follow up afterwards. To share that it can and will get better."

• Jac...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 17, 2021

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I received first vaccine - thought I was fine until 24 hours later. Then I started with joint and muscle pain. Nausea, headache, fever, and injection site pain. Nerve pain from shoulder to elbow like a sunburn for 3 days. Burned if I scratched it. Stayed in bed 3 days. Second injection worse. Both arms swelled, erythema, and tenderness at injection site. Day two I experienced muscle and joint pain. Weird bone pain in breastbone. Headache, severe neck pain, left shoulder, and scapular pain. I am a 55-year-old female. Healthy. It took about a week to feel good again. I still recommend the vaccine. I am a nurse and have cared for shingles patients. Brutal experience that can last for months with long-term complications."

• Suz...
• October 18, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I am a 64-year-old female in excellent health who received the 1st shot of the Shingrix vaccine on 10/6/20. I was not given a handout on the vaccine, nor was I told of any side effects. I developed a fever, blinding headache, shaking chills, weakness, joint & muscle pain. I had an itchy rash at the injection site. I felt like I'd been hit by a truck, & was bedbound all the next day. The following day I still felt terrible & profoundly weak. I suddenly went into an episode of A-fib (no history of heart disease). I was admitted to the hospital. Later, I still felt awful & developed a heart rate that was too low. While at my PCP for a follow-up, I had to be rushed to the ER for extreme lightheadedness & weakness. I was treated with IV fluids. I saw a cardiologist, who determined I had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine that happens to 1 in a million people. My cardiac issues have not fully resolved, and this has prevented me from working and leading my normal life."

• Eri...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 6, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I received the first injection of Shingrix at 11:00 AM at my internist's office. The nurse kept telling me that it was a painful inoculation, worse than a tetanus shot. So I expected pain when the needle went into my upper arm, but it was barely noticeable. I thought the nurse had exaggerated. My arm was sore after an hour or so, and I had a headache and felt tired, but again, I have had far worse. Fast forward twelve hours, and every nerve in my body seems to be activated. I had severe stomach, head, joint, and every other type of aching, burning, prickling, crushing pain one associates with a bad flu. Chills and a mild fever were part of the ordeal. All this persisted through the night and the next day. Where I find myself now, hoping that I'm not in for another night of torture. Tylenol and Motrin have given some slight relief. They say that the second dose is worse than the first, so in two to six months, I will be facing a difficult decision about getting the second dose."

• Ter...
• June 5, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "1st dose Dec 2019 - muscle pain, joint pain, fever and chills, arm hurt all the way up into my shoulder. I’ve never reacted this badly to anything. I’m healthy, no underlying conditions. I’m a 52-year-old female. I put off the 2nd dose as long as I could, didn’t want to deal with side effects especially with covid happening. My mom and MIL (mother-in-law) both had shingles and I saw them suffer. It wiped out my healthy mom for a year. MIL had it on her face, she had to go to the ophthalmologist weekly because they worried it would go into her eye. Another friend had it on her butt cheek, she said she had to try to go months with no pants on, as it was excruciating to wear clothes. I got the 2nd dose yesterday, my arm is sore and I woke up in the middle of the night feeling like I had been hit by a truck: fever, shivering, joint and muscle pain again, headache - feel terrible. Gonna take some meds and ride it out. Hope to never get shingles, if it's even remotely comparable to the shot after-effects, I do not want it."

• Dic...
• October 24, 2019

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Had Shingrix vaccine in August 2019. First dose. Within 12 hours, developed chills and shakiness so severe my juice glass flew from my hand and shattered the morning after. Getting hit by a truck would have been preferable. Had bouts of chills, shivers, and shakes lasting up to two hours. Fever topped out at 104. After one week in contact with a doctor, they had me come to the office. Sent to the hospital with a diagnosis of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS). After checking for infectious causes, it was determined this was a reaction to the Shingrix vaccine. 2 weeks of fever over 102. 3 weeks over 101. Recurring days of chills, muscle and joint aches, headaches, and light-headedness. After 3 months, told this could go on for a while. This vaccine needs to be administered with very exacting warnings of side effects, which may be debilitating and long-lasting."

• Zep...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 21, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "My husband and I got the first shot in February. Maybe a sore arm, but nothing that I really remember and no hesitation to get second. Second shot in July. Both of us had extreme pain in our arm. I was sick - fever, headache, chills, and horrible joint and muscle pain along with debilitating fatigue for 3 days. My husband also had symptoms but not as severe as mine. After two and a half weeks, my fatigue is still terrible, and my husband’s arm is still sore. Even with these side effects, it’s better than getting shingles. Really just wish we had been warned about them. This is the worst side effects I have had from a vaccine."

• Mim...
• October 11, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Took my first Shingrix dose in Jan 2020. The side effect was severe. Even though the headache was mild, the chills were unbearable. I had to spend 2 days wearing a thick coat while shivering. Naturally, I was reluctant to take the second dose until my doctor talked me into it. When I took the injection in Oct 2020, the side effect was much milder. I just got a slightly sore arm and a mild temperature. About two days later, I woke up at night totally soaked with sweat. After that, I was back to normal."

• Bac...
• March 11, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I am 61 years old and was diagnosed three years ago with Hashimoto's hypothyroidism, and thought it would be prudent to get the Shingrix vaccine. Both my family doctor and endocrinologist said it would not be a problem. I was given the vaccine in August 2019 at 10:00 a.m. The injection site hurt, but I was not concerned. I woke up at 2:00 a.m. in excruciating pain. I had uncontrolled shivering, extreme joint pain, and a severe headache that lasted for hours. At 6:00 a.m., my fever was 102°F. I believe it had been higher. My fever broke later, but I had continued joint pain and extreme fatigue that lasted for days to weeks to months now in some form or another. I am aware my thyroid condition involves those varying symptoms to begin with, but 8 months later I am still struggling daily with physical pain and believe the Shingrix shot took my condition to a whole new level with no end in sight."

• Vg5...
• August 30, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I was told that the shingles shot would be a little more sore than the flu shot. I got the shingles shot in my right arm and the flu shot in my left arm on Thursday, August 27, and the shingles shot did hurt more. However, that would’ve been fine if that was the worst of it. Friday, I couldn’t get out of bed, every joint in my body hurt, I had a headache, no appetite, and chills. Saturday, body aches were gone but terrible diarrhea started, and I still had chills. Saturday night was a nightmare with the diarrhea. Today is Sunday, and I am hoping the side effects subside. I sent a quick note to my doctor and said she couldn’t drag me back to the office for the second shot. There was no way I would do this to my body or system again on purpose. I might add, I was feeling fine when I went to the doctor to get these shots."

• Don...
• October 8, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Just a heads up. I had the first Shingrix vaccine a couple of months ago, just pain in my arm. I had the first pneumonia vaccine a year ago. I was due for the second vaccine for both. I went to Publix and got the second Pneumonia vaccine and the second Shingrix on the same day, big mistake. The Pharmacist assured me that getting them both together would not be a problem. Within 10 hours, I had a fever, the chills, the sweats, headache, and intense body aches. Not much sleep that first night. I started to improve after about 36 hours but after almost 3 days, I’m still not myself. I normally have no reactions to vaccines, but I think because I did both on the same day, my symptoms were elevated. I would never do that again. Of course, do what you want but I would say get one vaccine then go back in a few weeks and get the second."

• Mau...
• February 18, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "First shot, no issue. Second: within 3 hours, arm terribly sore, 100 temp, aches and joint pain and terrible headache for 30 hours, then fine. Then...eleven days later, I started with shaking chills, temp peaked at 102.5, headache and neck pain level above 10 (1/10), vision blurry, sweats where I would be soaking wet, strange diarrhea and extreme malaise. It is now day 11. I am a very active 69-year-old nurse. I never have headaches. This has been a nightmare that I hope will stop. I had shingles on my right shoulder twice and got the shot in my right arm. The epicenter of pain is in my neck right over where the C4 ganglion lies. This is the nerve that covers the dermatome where I had prior shingles. So far, after 2 Emergency room visits, I have tested negative for influenza, they did a lumbar puncture; negative for meningitis, finally said they didn’t know what was happening to me. I hate that I did this to myself by getting that horrid vaccine. It is dangerous."

• JJa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 30, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Had the shingles part 2 shot around 2 pm. Started having pains in my arm and bones later that evening. Took an Advil before bed and woke up with sore muscles, joints, chills, feeling freezing cold, and a headache. Around noon, I took another Advil. My appetite was poor. Laid around all day with no energy. I’m a fairly active 69-year-old, so this was surprising. Nothing a person can’t handle, just uncomfortable. This is day two, and I still feel the fever on my face."

• Kba...
• February 2, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Female, 57. I went for the first shingles vaccination in July 2019. Six months to the day, I had my second vaccination, along with a tetanus shot that I was due for. (The doctor said fewer symptoms if shots are spread further apart). After the first shot, I experienced a sore arm and redness around the injection site. I felt sluggish for a couple of days, but nothing bad. After the second shot, there was minimal soreness and redness. I felt good for the first 24 hours, then had a headache, night sweats, and very vivid dreams the second night. I’m not sure if the six-month wait makes a difference. The reactions can differ. My suggestion is to get the shot on a Friday so you have the weekend to recover if you feel sluggish. My sister had shingles on her face (no vaccinations). She wanted to die because of the pain. It's definitely worth a few days of feeling a little under the weather. Get the vaccine. Also, remember that bad experiences are voiced more than good. There are many people who have little to no issues."

• Pai...
• July 21, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "All I can say is beware. I'm 55 now. I received my first Shingrix shot four days ago. Luckily, I asked for it in my left non-dominant arm. The nurse never suggested that. Nearly four full days later, I still have arm pain. The first night, the pain was excruciating. I couldn't even wash my hair or raise my arm. I've taken Aleve every day since. I take it more than once a day because of the severe arm pain and also headaches and fevers. I have been sleeping ten plus hours per night and feel a bit dizzy. Thank goodness I didn't have a trip planned or work. The shot ruined my entire weekend. If you are getting this vaccine, don't plan any trip or driving for at least five days after it. I wish someone would have warned me of these side effects instead of giving me a handout after I was already vaccinated. I've had Shingles about 30 years ago, and that is awful, though so I was brave to get through this drama. I may have to rethink shot number two, though. I felt that miserable."

• Mol...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 20, 2021

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I received my first Shingrix vaccine yesterday from my local CVS. A mild headache developed after a couple of hours, and I went to bed around 8 PM feeling very tired but was unable to sleep. By 11 PM, I had a fever (101), chills, and wild, racing thoughts. Two Tylenol PMs had no effect, and I remained awake all night with throbbing pain in my lower back and joints. I forced myself out of bed at 1 PM today and feel like I’ve gone several rounds with Mike Tyson, but at least the fever seems to be subsiding. Hopefully, the second vaccine will be uneventful, but I’ll plan ahead, just in case. Having had shingles at the age of 16, which covered my torso, scalp, and spread dangerously close to my eyes, I definitely think the vaccine is worth it as I never want to experience that pain ever again."

• Mol...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 20, 2021

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I received my first Shingrix vaccine yesterday from my local CVS. A mild headache developed after a couple of hours, and I went to bed around 8 PM feeling very tired but was unable to sleep. By 11 PM, I had a fever (101), chills, and wild, racing thoughts. Two Tylenol PMs had no effect, and I remained awake all night with throbbing pain in my lower back and joints. I forced myself out of bed at 1 PM today and feel like I’ve gone several rounds with Mike Tyson, but at least the fever seems to be subsiding. Hopefully, the second vaccine will be uneventful, but I’ll plan ahead, just in case. Having had shingles at the age of 16, which covered my torso, scalp, and spread dangerously close to my eyes, I definitely think the vaccine is worth it as I never want to experience that pain ever again."

• lss...
• November 28, 2019

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Had the first dose of Shingrix 4/18 with side effects of excruciating headache and body aches in knees, along with severe pain in ankles. This subsided about 3 days later. Then, as recommended, had the second shot 9/18. One week before, I had walked 5 miles, no problem. Eight weeks after vaccination, my demise began. Started with loss of dexterity in right arm, same arm as vaccination, then peers noticed slurred speech by April and swallowing problems. Then, around July, constant muscle twitching and severe loss of mobility in right arm. Lost 24 pounds since the second shot. Fast forward 2 MRIs and 2 EMGs later, I have been diagnosed by the Mayo Clinic with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). I had no problems and considered a healthy individual, exercised frequently until I took this vaccine derived from genetically engineered Chinese hamster ovaries, boosted up by an adjuvant ASO1b, which has never been used in a US vaccine before. I truly wish the CDC, FDA, and GSK realize what this vaccine is doing and get it off the market."

• Luc...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 19, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "62 y/o female. Had first dose in February. Only side effect was a sore arm for about 5 days. Had second dose this past Tues at 1:00 pm. By 7:00 pm, the arm pain started along with a headache. Next day, had a pounding headache, body aches, neck pain, and the injection site was sore to the touch and red. Took ibuprofen throughout the day with minimum relief. Before bed, I took 3 ibuprofen and 2 regular Tylenol. Next day, I felt 90% better except for my arm. Now, 3 days out and I'm back to normal. Arm is still a little sore but getting better each day."

• Cin...
• March 3, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I had the first shingles vaccine last week. Shot hurt, I felt some mild flu-like symptoms. The worst issue was my arm swelled and was extraordinarily painful for about five days. I showed my husband the difference in size and my shoulders – the one I got the shot in versus the other. He said I looked deformed and called me Popeye, it was just awful, lol! That was how bad it swelled. It was so painful, just brushing a shirt against it was exceedingly painful. It’s been a week and my arm is almost better, but now I’m getting incredible headaches in the morning and in the evening. I’ve never had them before, and they don’t seem to be getting any better. I’m really lightheaded as well. Admittedly, I’m super nervous about getting the next vaccine."

• DCa...
• August 28, 2019

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I will NEVER receive the second vaccination. I took the first shot on July 12, 2019. I had a painful arm that woke me for 3 nights, then a slight headache, achy & mild fatigue. Night 5, I developed chills so bad my whole body was shaking. Woke on day 6, and I could not stand up. Ears were ringing & room spinning. Nearly passed out. Crawled to the bathroom & vomited. I had blisters in my ear & inside my lips. My right arm broke out in an itchy rash. Nauseated for 3 hours. I have debilitating brain fog. At 6 weeks, the dizziness has lessened but is still there. Eyes are glassy & ears still ringing. Fatigue is beyond description. I have missed days of work. I have had an EKG, an MRI, VNG & hearing test. I am going to vestibular therapy and 4 doctors. The neurologist started me on Prednisone, which has intensified my fatigue, and my gums have broken out with blisters. I am 59 with some immune issues. I figured this would be the lesser of two evils. I am fearing I have ruined my life."

• Hun...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• December 20, 2019

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "This is so bad, it is scaring me from taking the second shot. It's been three weeks tomorrow, and I still feel horrible. I was so dizzy I almost fell in the shower the day after, and that went on for a good week. I could not sleep for two nights due to arm pain. I have also had chills and fever, pounding headaches, and nightmares. One night last week, I suddenly felt like I was suffocating. I am still so fatigued I cannot stand more than a few minutes at a time without feeling like I am going to collapse. I also get shooting pains all the way down into my wrist, back, and collarbone. I am afraid I will never feel better. I have never had a reaction to any vaccine before."

• Ace...
• January 4, 2021

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I got the Shingrix injection in August 2020, worse mistake of my life. I’m a 57-year-old female who up until now has been very active. Since the injection, I’ve been living with extreme arm pain, throbbing, shooting pain down my arm, numbness in my hand, can’t sleep, extreme fatigue, constant headache, and can’t sleep. I’ve been going to a specialist to figure out what I can do about the symptoms. I haven’t been able to work due to the pain. This is going on 5 months, and I’m miserable, can’t lift my arm up past my waist without extreme pain. I wish the provider would have told me about the possible side effects before getting the injection, and I would not have gotten it."

• Ace...
• January 4, 2021

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "I got the Shingrix injection in August 2020, worse mistake of my life. I’m a 57-year-old female who up until now has been very active. Since the injection, I’ve been living with extreme arm pain, throbbing, shooting pain down my arm, numbness in my hand, can’t sleep, extreme fatigue, constant headache, and can’t sleep. I’ve been going to a specialist to figure out what I can do about the symptoms. I haven’t been able to work due to the pain. This is going on 5 months, and I’m miserable, can’t lift my arm up past my waist without extreme pain. I wish the provider would have told me about the possible side effects before getting the injection, and I would not have gotten it."

• Kon...
• February 20, 2020

For Herpes Zoster, Prophylaxis "Oct. 7 - 1st dose. I got ALL the side effects! They started within 6 hours: headache and stomachache. By bedtime, I had chills, shivering, fever, and aches - lasted 3 whole days. Injection site pain a week. Feb. 17 - 2nd dose. Contacted Shingrix pharmacist who said the 2nd dose reaction is worse than the 1st and emailed me a copy of their drug studies info. 2nd dose reaction is tremendously better. I strongly believe it is because I stayed ahead of the side effects. 1½ hours after getting the shot, I took 400mg of Advil as a preventative measure. I took it EVERY 6 hours around the clock to stay ahead of any headache, chills, fever, etc. I did not miss taking Advil or go past 6 hours. In 4 hours, my eyes were tired and very slight headache. 1st night mild chills a little before it was time to take Advil. Next day very tired and my head felt wonky. No fever, shivering, or stomachache. The injection site hurts A LOT! I hope this info helps. Good luck!"