The Uses of Sucrose in Vaccines

How does sucrose work in vaccines?

• Sucrose for Stabilization of Proteins and Antigens
  Proteins and antigens in vaccines are delicate and prone to degradation. Sucrose is utilized as a stabilizer due to its ability to maintain the structural integrity and functionality of these components. Sucrose protects proteins and antigens from the detrimental effects of environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and mechanical stress during the vaccine's manufacturing, storage, and administration. By forming a protective matrix around these components, sucrose minimizes conformational changes and prevents denaturation, ensuring the vaccine's potency is maintained.
• Sucrose for Freeze-Drying and Lyophilization

• Sucrose used to reduce vaccination-related pain
  Studies have shown that sucrose effectively decreases pain and distress in infants and children during immunizations. The analgesic effects of sucrose can be attributed to the activation of endogenous opioid systems in the brain. For example, a study by Manal Kassab et al evaluated the effects of sucrose on neonatal vaccination-related pain. [1] Researchers evaluated the efficacy of sucrose injections using behavioral pain parameters, crying duration, and salivary substance (P) concentration. The results suggest that sucrose can be an effective intervention for pain relief.

In which commercial vaccines can sucrose be found?

The specific formulas of vaccines may vary from different manufacturers and countries. The following table lists some common U.S. vaccines containing sucrose ingredients for reference only.

Useful link

It is always recommended to check the vaccine package insert on the FDA's official website.

Vaccines Licensed for Use in the United States

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Reference

1. Manal Kassab, et al. J Pediatr Nurs. 2020 Jan-Feb:50:e55-e61.

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