Sputnik V is a combined vector vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Currently, it is being used for individuals above 18 years of age. Sputnik V has been approved for use in 69 countries including India. 

The results from the Phase 3 clinical trials conducted in Russia, India, and UAE have shown Sputnik V to be 91.6% safe and effective against the novel Coronavirus including the newer strains. 

Read ahead to find answers to the most frequently asked questions about the Sputnik V vaccine.

1. In which country is the vaccine developed?

Sputnik V has been developed in Russia by the Russian Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Gamaleya National Research Centre of Epidemiology and Microbiology and the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF).

2. How does the vaccine work?

Sputnik V is an adenoviral vector-based vaccine. It is given in two doses. The first dose is the primary vaccine and the second is the booster shot. There is a gap of three weeks (21 days) between the two doses.

Sputnik V vaccine uses two harmless virus vectors (carriers) called Ad26 and Ad5. They are injected into your body to deliver genetic information to your immune cells. This helps create antibodies against the novel coronavirus without causing any serious side effects of COVID-19.

3. What is the safety and efficacy of the vaccine?

Based on the results from clinical studies, Sputnik V has been found to be 91.6% effective against COVID-19.

Another study performed by the Gamaleya Research Institute for Epidemiology and Microbiology indicated that Sputnik V is effective against the newer strains of coronavirus, including Alpha B.1.1.7, Beta B.1.351 and Gamma P.1 

4. What are the reported side effects of the vaccine?

According to its developers, no serious allergies or adverse events was registered after vaccination with Sputnik V. 

The developers have also stated that it has no long-term side effects. 

However, some mild side effects lasting for 24 to 48 hours have been reported. These may include:

  • Tiredness

  • Headache

  • Muscle ache

  • Body pain

  • Joint pain 

  • Chills

  • Fever

  • Vomiting

5. Which age groups have been approved to receive the vaccine?

Sputnik V is currently approved for use in individuals above 18 years of age. Vaccines for children are still under research and in the development phase.

6. Who should not take the vaccine?

People with the following conditions may be advised against the vaccine:

  • Less than 18 years of age.

  • Had a severe allergic reaction to the first dose of Sputnik V.

  • Have active symptoms of COVID-19. 

  • Pregnant women.

This is because of the lack of sufficient data on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine in such cases.

7. How is the vaccine administered and in what doses?

Sputnik V is given as an intramuscular injection as a 0.5 ml dose for both the first and the second shots. 

8. Is it safe to administer in those who have already been infected with COVID-19?

Yes, it is safe. Experts believe that Sputnik V boosts immunity in those who have already been infected.

9. Can pregnant and lactating women take the vaccine?

The vaccine is not recommended for use during pregnancy, since its effectiveness and safety during this period have not been studied. However, it can be administered safely in lactating women.

10. Is it safe to combine the vaccine with other vaccines?

Limited information is available on the safety and efficacy of combining Sputnik V with other vaccines. 

11. What is the storage requirement for the vaccine?

The vaccine is to be stored in a dark place, at a storage temperature of +2 to +8 °C (36 to 46 °F) in a regular refrigerator without the need to invest in additional cold chain infrastructure.

12. What should you do if you miss the second dose of the vaccine?

Inform your healthcare provider in case you have missed your second dose. They will guide you to the best course of action.

 13. What is the current status of the Sputnik V vaccine in India?

Sputnik V vaccine has already been approved for emergency use by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and its administration has started across the country.

A lot of research and development has been carried out and is still ongoing on the different vaccines for COVID-19 including Sputnik V. 

Scientists hope that the success of these vaccines will save many lives and help people return to their normal lives in the future. 


References:

1. Sputnikvaccine.com. 2021. About Vaccine. [online] Available at: <https://sputnikvaccine.com/about-vaccine/> [Accessed 17 August 2021].

2. Drreddys.com. 2021. [online] Available at: <https://www.drreddys.com/sputnik/documents/102751-Sputnik_V-FACT-SHEET-Ufa-VITA.pdf> [Accessed 17 August 2021].



Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.