THE Pneumovax pneumococcal vaccine does not reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in older adults, Australian research has found.

Previous animal studies and human data suggested that it might help prevent clogged arteries, which can cause heart attacks and strokes.

However, the trial in almost 5,000 people aged 55 to 60 across six Australian centres found that there was no significant difference in the rates of fatal and non-fatal heart attack and stroke over seven years in people taking the vaccine or a placebo.

However, the authors pointed out the study was too small to rule out a benefit altogether, and the results should be confirmed with larger trials.

Read the study HERE.

The post No heart benefit from Pneumovax appeared first on Pharmacy Daily.