Streptococcus Pneumoniae Type 23F Capsular Polysaccharide Antigen
Streptococcus pneumoniae type 23F capsular polysaccharide antigen is a vaccine component used to induce immunity against pneumococcal disease caused by serotype 23F. This serotype is included in the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) to protect against pneumonia, meningitis, and other invasive pneumococcal infections. The antigen works by stimulating antibody production against the polysaccharide capsule of this bacterial strain.
A vaccine antigen component that provides protection against pneumococcal disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 23F.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 854956
- Generic
- Streptococcus Pneumoniae Type 23f Capsular Polysaccharide Antigen
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Pneumovax 23
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- prefilled syringe, injection, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention of pneumococcal infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 23F, including pneumonia, meningitis, bacteremia, sinusitis, and otitis media. This antigen is included in the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) for adults and certain high-risk populations.
The capsular polysaccharide antigen stimulates the immune system to produce type-specific opsonizing antibodies against the polysaccharide capsule of S. pneumoniae serotype 23F, enabling phagocytic clearance of the bacteria and providing serotype-specific protective immunity.
As a component of polysaccharide vaccines, this antigen may be less effective in young children under 2 years due to immature immune responses to polysaccharide antigens. Conjugate formulations may be used for pediatric populations. Vaccine coverage includes multiple pneumococcal serotypes; consult current guidelines for recommended vaccination schedules and revaccination intervals.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 31, 2026. · Read our editorial policy