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| Meta Title | COVID-19 MRNA (Pfizer) Vaccine Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term |
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| Boilerpipe Text | Medically reviewed
by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 15, 2025.
Serious side effects
Other side effects
Professional info
FAQ
Applies to
COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine
:
intramuscular suspension
.
Intramuscular route (suspension)
Although the licensed vaccine (
Comirnaty
®) is FDA-approved in patients aged 16 or older for 2 doses ,
Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine
is an unapproved product authorized for emergency use in individuals aged 12 through 15 years and to provide a third dose to individuals aged 12 years or older who are solid
organ transplant
recipients or have an equivalent level of immunocompromise.
Precautions
Be sure to notify your doctor of any side effects (eg, feeling faint, especially in teenagers) that occur after you receive this vaccine.
Fainting
may occur after you receive this vaccine. Your doctor may want you to be observed after you get the injection to prevent and manage fainting.
This vaccine may cause serious allergic reactions, including
anaphylaxis
, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, a
fast heartbeat
, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after receiving the vaccine.
This vaccine may increase your risk of serious heart problems (eg, myocarditis,
pericarditis
), especially after you receive the second dose. Check with your doctor right away if you have anxiety, blue or pale skin, chest pain, possibly moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder, fever, chills, a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or unusual tiredness or weakness.
This vaccine may not protect everyone who receives it. This vaccine will not treat symptoms of COVID-19 infection if you already have the disease. It is very important that you take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.
Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor or nurse immediately
if any of the following side effects occur while taking COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine:
More common side effects
chills
diarrhea
fever
headache
irritability
joint or
muscle pain
swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
unusual tiredness or weakness
Less common side effects
Rare side effects
decreased appetite
general feeling of discomfort or illness
pain in the arms
rash
Incidence not known
anxiety
blue or pale skin
chest discomfort or tightness
chest pain, possible moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder
cough
difficulty swallowing
dizziness
fast heartbeat
fainting
large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
trouble breathing
Other side effects
Some side effects of COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine may occur that usually
do not need medical attention
. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects
continue or are bothersome
or if you have any questions about them:
More common side effects
pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
For healthcare professionals
Applies to COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine:
intramuscular suspension
.
General adverse events
The most commonly reported side effects included injection site pain, fatigue, and headache.
[
Ref
]
Cardiovascular
Postmarketing reports
: Myocarditis, pericarditis
[
Ref
]
Dermatologic
Frequency not reported
: Hyperhidrosis, night sweats
Postmarketing reports
:
Pruritus
, rash,
urticaria
[
Ref
]
Gastrointestinal
Very common
(10% or more): Diarrhea (up to 11.1%)
Common
(1% to 10%): Vomiting
Frequency not reported
: Nausea
[
Ref
]
Hematologic
Common
(1% to 10%):
Lymphadenopathy
[
Ref
]
Hypersensitivity
Postmarketing reports
: Anaphylaxis,
angioedema
, other hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., pruritus, rash, urticaria), severe allergic reactions
[
Ref
]
Local
Very common
(10% or more): Injection site pain (up to 90.5%), injection site swelling (up to 11.8%), injection site redness (up to 10.4%)
Postmarketing reports
: Extremity (arm) pain
[
Ref
]
Metabolic
Frequency not reported
: Decreased appetite
[
Ref
]
Musculoskeletal
Very common
(10% or more): Chills (up to 49.2%), muscle pain (up to 45.5%), new/worsened muscle pain (up to 39.3%),
joint pain
(up to 27.5%), new/worsened joint pain (up to 23.8%)
[
Ref
]
Nervous system
Very common
(10% or more): Headache (up to 75.5%)
Frequency not reported
: Bell's palsy/facial paralysis,
lethargy
Postmarketing reports
: Dizziness,
syncope
[
Ref
]
Other
Very common
(10% or more): Fatigue (up to 77.5%), use of antipyretic or pain medication (up to 50.8%), fever (up to 24.3%)
Frequency not reported
: Asthenia, malaise, febrile seizures
[
Ref
]
References
1. (2023) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2023-2024) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))."
Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group
2. (2024) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2024-2025) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))."
Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group
3. (2025) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2025-2026) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))."
Pfizer Inc.
Does COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine interact with my other drugs?
Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our
Drug Interaction Checker
.
Frequently asked questions
Can you become immune to COVID-19?
COVID-19 vaccines and variants: What you should know
Further information
COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine
side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Note:
Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following
this guide
.
Medical Disclaimer |
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2. [COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine](https://www.drugs.com/cons/sars-cov-2-covid-19-vaccine-mrna-pfizer.html)
3. Side Effects
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# COVID-19 MRNA (Pfizer) Vaccine Side Effects
[Medically reviewed](https://www.drugs.com/support/editorial-policy.html#editorial-staff) by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 15, 2025.
- [Serious side effects](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#serious-side-effects)
- [Other side effects](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#other-side-effects)
- [Professional info](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#professional-info)
- [FAQ](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#faq)
Applies to [COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine](https://www.drugs.com/cons/sars-cov-2-covid-19-vaccine-mrna-pfizer.html): **intramuscular suspension**.
## **Important warnings** This medicine can cause some serious health issues
Intramuscular route (suspension)
Although the licensed vaccine ([Comirnaty](https://www.drugs.com/comirnaty.html)®) is FDA-approved in patients aged 16 or older for 2 doses , [Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine](https://www.drugs.com/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine.html) is an unapproved product authorized for emergency use in individuals aged 12 through 15 years and to provide a third dose to individuals aged 12 years or older who are solid [organ transplant](https://www.drugs.com/cg/liver-transplant-discharge-care.html) recipients or have an equivalent level of immunocompromise.
## Precautions
Be sure to notify your doctor of any side effects (eg, feeling faint, especially in teenagers) that occur after you receive this vaccine.
[Fainting](https://www.drugs.com/cg/syncope.html) may occur after you receive this vaccine. Your doctor may want you to be observed after you get the injection to prevent and manage fainting.
This vaccine may cause serious allergic reactions, including [anaphylaxis](https://www.drugs.com/cg/anaphylaxis.html), which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, a [fast heartbeat](https://www.drugs.com/cg/tachycardia.html), trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after receiving the vaccine.
This vaccine may increase your risk of serious heart problems (eg, myocarditis, [pericarditis](https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/pericarditis.html)), especially after you receive the second dose. Check with your doctor right away if you have anxiety, blue or pale skin, chest pain, possibly moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder, fever, chills, a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or unusual tiredness or weakness.
This vaccine may not protect everyone who receives it. This vaccine will not treat symptoms of COVID-19 infection if you already have the disease. It is very important that you take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter \[OTC\]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.
## Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
*Check with your doctor or nurse immediately* if any of the following side effects occur while taking COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine:
### More common side effects
- chills
- [diarrhea](https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/diarrhea.html)
- fever
- [headache](https://www.drugs.com/cg/tension-headache.html)
- irritability
- joint or [muscle pain](https://www.drugs.com/cg/ankle-sprain.html)
- swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
- unusual tiredness or weakness
### Less common side effects
- nausea
- [vomiting](https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/nausea.html)
### Rare side effects
- decreased appetite
- general feeling of discomfort or illness
- pain in the arms
- rash
### Incidence not known
- anxiety
- blue or pale skin
- chest discomfort or tightness
- chest pain, possible moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder
- cough
- [difficulty swallowing](https://www.drugs.com/cg/dysphagia.html)
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- fainting
- large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
- puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- trouble breathing
## Other side effects
Some side effects of COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine may occur that usually **do not need medical attention**. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects **continue or are bothersome** or if you have any questions about them:
### More common side effects
- pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
## See also:
### [Abrysvo](https://www.drugs.com/abrysvo.html)
Abrysvo is a vaccine used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract ...
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=4475&brand_name_id=20398&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/abrysvo.html)
### [ACAM2000](https://www.drugs.com/acam2000.html)
ACAM2000 vaccine may be used to prevent smallpox and mpox disease in people of any age at high risk ...
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=4089&brand_name_id=20846&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/acam2000.html)
Featured
### [Ubrelvy](https://www.drugs.com/ubrelvy.html)
Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) tablets are used for the acute treatment of migraine. Includes Ubrelvy side ...
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6\.7 / 10
[306 Reviews](https://www.drugs.com/comments/ubrogepant/ubrelvy.html)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/ubrelvy.html)
### [Afluria](https://www.drugs.com/afluria.html)
Afluria is a vaccine used to prevent infection caused by influenza virus. Learn about side effects ...
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=1337&brand_name_id=12150&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/afluria.html)
### [Afluria Preservative-Free Pediatric Quadrivalent](https://www.drugs.com/mtm/afluria-pf-pediatric-quadrivalent-2021-2022-injection.html)
Afluria Preservative-Free Pediatric Quadrivalent is used for influenza prophylaxis
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=1337&brand_name_id=19551&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/mtm/afluria-pf-pediatric-quadrivalent-2021-2022-injection.html)
### [Afluria Preservative-Free Quadrivalent](https://www.drugs.com/mtm/afluria-pf-quadrivalent-2021-2022-injection.html)
Afluria Preservative-Free Quadrivalent is used for influenza prophylaxis
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=1337&brand_name_id=19552&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/mtm/afluria-pf-quadrivalent-2021-2022-injection.html)
### [Afluria Quadrivalent](https://www.drugs.com/mtm/afluria-quadrivalent-2021-2022-injection.html)
Afluria Quadrivalent is used for influenza prophylaxis
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=1337&brand_name_id=18164&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/mtm/afluria-quadrivalent-2021-2022-injection.html)
### [Arexvy](https://www.drugs.com/arexvy.html)
Arexvy is a vaccine used to prevent respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) lower respiratory tract ...
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=4531&brand_name_id=20556&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/arexvy.html)
### [Audenz](https://www.drugs.com/cons/audenz.html)
Audenz is used for influenza prophylaxis
**Reviews & ratings**
[Add a review](https://www.drugs.com/members_comments_add/?ddc_id=2755&brand_name_id=19386&condition_id=0)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/cons/audenz.html)
### [Comirnaty](https://www.drugs.com/comirnaty.html)
Comirnaty (made by Pfizer-BioNTech) is an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine that can be given to adults aged 65 ...
**Reviews & ratings**
[1 Review](https://www.drugs.com/comments/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine/comirnaty.html)
[View more](https://www.drugs.com/comirnaty.html)
[Managing side effects](https://www.drugs.com/article/drug-side-effects.html) (general information)
## For healthcare professionals
Applies to COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine: **intramuscular suspension**.
### General adverse events
The most commonly reported side effects included injection site pain, fatigue, and headache.\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Cardiovascular
- **Postmarketing reports**: Myocarditis, pericarditis\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Dermatologic
- **Frequency not reported**: Hyperhidrosis, night sweats
- **Postmarketing reports**: [Pruritus](https://www.drugs.com/cg/itchy-skin.html), rash, [urticaria](https://www.drugs.com/cg/urticaria.html)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Gastrointestinal
- **Very common** (10% or more): Diarrhea (up to 11.1%)
- **Common** (1% to 10%): Vomiting
- **Frequency not reported**: Nausea\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Hematologic
- **Common** (1% to 10%): [Lymphadenopathy](https://www.drugs.com/cg/lymphadenopathy.html)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Hypersensitivity
- **Postmarketing reports**: Anaphylaxis, [angioedema](https://www.drugs.com/cg/angioedema.html), other hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., pruritus, rash, urticaria), severe allergic reactions\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Local
- **Very common** (10% or more): Injection site pain (up to 90.5%), injection site swelling (up to 11.8%), injection site redness (up to 10.4%)
- **Postmarketing reports**: Extremity (arm) pain\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Metabolic
- **Frequency not reported**: Decreased appetite\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Musculoskeletal
- **Very common** (10% or more): Chills (up to 49.2%), muscle pain (up to 45.5%), new/worsened muscle pain (up to 39.3%), [joint pain](https://www.drugs.com/cg/osteoarthritis.html) (up to 27.5%), new/worsened joint pain (up to 23.8%)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Nervous system
- **Very common** (10% or more): Headache (up to 75.5%)
- **Frequency not reported**: Bell's palsy/facial paralysis, [lethargy](https://www.drugs.com/cg/fatigue.html)
- **Postmarketing reports**: Dizziness, [syncope](https://www.drugs.com/cg/syncope.html)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Other
- **Very common** (10% or more): Fatigue (up to 77.5%), use of antipyretic or pain medication (up to 50.8%), fever (up to 24.3%)
- **Frequency not reported**: Asthenia, malaise, febrile seizures\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
#### References
1\. (2023) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2023-2024) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))." *Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group*
2\. (2024) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2024-2025) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))." *Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group*
3\. (2025) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2025-2026) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))." *Pfizer Inc.*
### Does COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine interact with my other drugs?
Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our [Drug Interaction Checker](https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html).
## Frequently asked questions
- [Can you become immune to COVID-19?](https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/you-immune-covid-19-3537185/)
- [COVID-19 vaccines and variants: What you should know](https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/coronavirus-mutate-3535321/)
## More about COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine
- [Check interactions](https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine.html)
- [Compare alternatives](https://www.drugs.com/compare/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine)
- [Reviews (18)](https://www.drugs.com/comments/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine/for-covid-19.html)
- [Latest FDA alerts (1)](https://www.drugs.com/fda-alerts/4638-0.html)
- [Dosage information](https://www.drugs.com/dosage/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine.html)
- [During pregnancy](https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine.html)
- [Drug class: viral vaccines](https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/viral-vaccines.html)
### Patient resources
- [Sars-cov-2 (covid-19) vaccine, mrna (pfizer) advanced reading](https://www.drugs.com/cons/sars-cov-2-covid-19-vaccine-mrna-pfizer.html)
#### Other brands
[Comirnaty](https://www.drugs.com/comirnaty.html), [Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine](https://www.drugs.com/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine.html)
### Professional resources
- [COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA (Pfizer-BioNTech) (2025-2026 Formula) monograph](https://www.drugs.com/monograph/covid-19-vaccine-mrna-pfizer-biontech-2025-2026-formula.html)
- [Covid-19 Vaccine Pfizer (FDA)](https://www.drugs.com/pro/covid-19-vaccine-pfizer.html)
- [Covid-19 Vaccine Pfizer, Bivalent (FDA)](https://www.drugs.com/pro/covid-19-vaccine-pfizer-bivalent.html)
- [Covid-19 Vaccine Pfizer, Monovalent, 6 mo-4 yr (FDA)](https://www.drugs.com/pro/covid-19-vaccine-pfizer-monovalent-6-mo-4-yr.html)
- [Covid-19 Vaccine Pfizer, Monovalent,5 yr to 11 yr (FDA)](https://www.drugs.com/pro/covid-19-vaccine-pfizer-monovalent-5-yr-to-11-yr.html)
- [Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine (FDA)](https://www.drugs.com/pro/pfizer-biontech-vaccine.html)
#### Other brands
[Comirnaty](https://www.drugs.com/pro/comirnaty.html)
### Related treatment guides
- [COVID-19](https://www.drugs.com/condition/covid-19.html)
## Further information
**COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine** side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
**Note:** Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following [this guide](https://www.drugs.com/fda-consumer/your-guide-to-reporting-problems-to-fda-71.html).
[Medical Disclaimer](https://www.drugs.com/support/disclaimer.html)
**Drug Status**
**Availability** Prescription only Rx
[**Pregnancy & Lactation**](https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine.html) Risk data available
**CSA Schedule\*** Not a controlled drug N/A
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User Reviews & Ratings
7\.2 / 10
[18 Reviews](https://www.drugs.com/comments/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine/)
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| Readable Markdown | [Medically reviewed](https://www.drugs.com/support/editorial-policy.html#editorial-staff) by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 15, 2025.
- [Serious side effects](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#serious-side-effects)
- [Other side effects](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#other-side-effects)
- [Professional info](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#professional-info)
- [FAQ](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#faq)
Applies to [COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine](https://www.drugs.com/cons/sars-cov-2-covid-19-vaccine-mrna-pfizer.html): **intramuscular suspension**.
Intramuscular route (suspension)
Although the licensed vaccine ([Comirnaty](https://www.drugs.com/comirnaty.html)®) is FDA-approved in patients aged 16 or older for 2 doses , [Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine](https://www.drugs.com/pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine.html) is an unapproved product authorized for emergency use in individuals aged 12 through 15 years and to provide a third dose to individuals aged 12 years or older who are solid [organ transplant](https://www.drugs.com/cg/liver-transplant-discharge-care.html) recipients or have an equivalent level of immunocompromise.
## Precautions
Be sure to notify your doctor of any side effects (eg, feeling faint, especially in teenagers) that occur after you receive this vaccine.
[Fainting](https://www.drugs.com/cg/syncope.html) may occur after you receive this vaccine. Your doctor may want you to be observed after you get the injection to prevent and manage fainting.
This vaccine may cause serious allergic reactions, including [anaphylaxis](https://www.drugs.com/cg/anaphylaxis.html), which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor right away if you have a rash, itching, a [fast heartbeat](https://www.drugs.com/cg/tachycardia.html), trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after receiving the vaccine.
This vaccine may increase your risk of serious heart problems (eg, myocarditis, [pericarditis](https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/pericarditis.html)), especially after you receive the second dose. Check with your doctor right away if you have anxiety, blue or pale skin, chest pain, possibly moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder, fever, chills, a fast heartbeat, trouble breathing, or unusual tiredness or weakness.
This vaccine may not protect everyone who receives it. This vaccine will not treat symptoms of COVID-19 infection if you already have the disease. It is very important that you take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19.
Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter \[OTC\]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.
## Serious side effects
Along with its needed effects, COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
*Check with your doctor or nurse immediately* if any of the following side effects occur while taking COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine:
### More common side effects
- chills
- [diarrhea](https://www.drugs.com/health-guide/diarrhea.html)
- fever
- [headache](https://www.drugs.com/cg/tension-headache.html)
- irritability
- joint or [muscle pain](https://www.drugs.com/cg/ankle-sprain.html)
- swollen, painful, or tender lymph glands in the neck, armpit, or groin
- unusual tiredness or weakness
### Less common side effects
### Rare side effects
- decreased appetite
- general feeling of discomfort or illness
- pain in the arms
- rash
### Incidence not known
- anxiety
- blue or pale skin
- chest discomfort or tightness
- chest pain, possible moving to the left arm, neck, or shoulder
- cough
- [difficulty swallowing](https://www.drugs.com/cg/dysphagia.html)
- dizziness
- fast heartbeat
- fainting
- large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
- puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- trouble breathing
## Other side effects
Some side effects of COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine may occur that usually **do not need medical attention**. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects **continue or are bothersome** or if you have any questions about them:
### More common side effects
- pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
## For healthcare professionals
Applies to COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine: **intramuscular suspension**.
### General adverse events
The most commonly reported side effects included injection site pain, fatigue, and headache.\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Cardiovascular
- **Postmarketing reports**: Myocarditis, pericarditis\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Dermatologic
- **Frequency not reported**: Hyperhidrosis, night sweats
- **Postmarketing reports**: [Pruritus](https://www.drugs.com/cg/itchy-skin.html), rash, [urticaria](https://www.drugs.com/cg/urticaria.html)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Gastrointestinal
- **Very common** (10% or more): Diarrhea (up to 11.1%)
- **Common** (1% to 10%): Vomiting
- **Frequency not reported**: Nausea\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Hematologic
- **Common** (1% to 10%): [Lymphadenopathy](https://www.drugs.com/cg/lymphadenopathy.html)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Hypersensitivity
- **Postmarketing reports**: Anaphylaxis, [angioedema](https://www.drugs.com/cg/angioedema.html), other hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., pruritus, rash, urticaria), severe allergic reactions\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Local
- **Very common** (10% or more): Injection site pain (up to 90.5%), injection site swelling (up to 11.8%), injection site redness (up to 10.4%)
- **Postmarketing reports**: Extremity (arm) pain\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Metabolic
- **Frequency not reported**: Decreased appetite\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Musculoskeletal
- **Very common** (10% or more): Chills (up to 49.2%), muscle pain (up to 45.5%), new/worsened muscle pain (up to 39.3%), [joint pain](https://www.drugs.com/cg/osteoarthritis.html) (up to 27.5%), new/worsened joint pain (up to 23.8%)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Nervous system
- **Very common** (10% or more): Headache (up to 75.5%)
- **Frequency not reported**: Bell's palsy/facial paralysis, [lethargy](https://www.drugs.com/cg/fatigue.html)
- **Postmarketing reports**: Dizziness, [syncope](https://www.drugs.com/cg/syncope.html)\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
### Other
- **Very common** (10% or more): Fatigue (up to 77.5%), use of antipyretic or pain medication (up to 50.8%), fever (up to 24.3%)
- **Frequency not reported**: Asthenia, malaise, febrile seizures\[[Ref](https://www.drugs.com/sfx/covid-19-mrna-pfizer-vaccine-side-effects.html#refs)\]
#### References
1\. (2023) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2023-2024) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))." *Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group*
2\. (2024) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2024-2025) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))." *Pfizer U.S. Pharmaceuticals Group*
3\. (2025) "Product Information. Comirnaty (2025-2026) PF (cvx 309) (SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) mRNA-LNP vaccine (cvx 309))." *Pfizer Inc.*
### Does COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine interact with my other drugs?
Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our [Drug Interaction Checker](https://www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html).
## Frequently asked questions
- [Can you become immune to COVID-19?](https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/you-immune-covid-19-3537185/)
- [COVID-19 vaccines and variants: What you should know](https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/coronavirus-mutate-3535321/)
## Further information
**COVID-19 mRNA (Pfizer) vaccine** side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
**Note:** Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following [this guide](https://www.drugs.com/fda-consumer/your-guide-to-reporting-problems-to-fda-71.html).
[Medical Disclaimer](https://www.drugs.com/support/disclaimer.html) |
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