Description:
The Hepatitis B vaccine is a preventive vaccine designed to protect individuals from the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. It helps the immune system develop resistance against the virus, preventing chronic liver disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer caused by HBV. The vaccine contains an inactivated form of the Hepatitis B virus or a part of the virus that stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies without causing disease.

Prescription:

• Prescription required

Dosage:

• The standard dosage for adults is typically administered as a 3-dose series (0, 1, and 6 months).
• Infants: The vaccine is usually given in 3 doses starting shortly after birth, with doses given at birth, 1-2 months, and 6-18 months.
• Booster doses: A booster may be recommended for people with high-risk conditions or those in certain professions.

Therapeutic Category:

• Vaccine: Hepatitis B vaccine falls under the category of preventive vaccines to protect against Hepatitis B virus infection.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Recombinant Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg): The vaccine contains a purified form of the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) produced through recombinant DNA technology.
• Adjuvants: To enhance the immune response, adjuvants (e.g., aluminum hydroxide) are included.
• Other Components: The vaccine may contain stabilizers, preservatives, or other excipients to maintain its stability and efficacy.

Variant:

• Monovalent Hepatitis B Vaccine: The standard vaccine used to protect against only the Hepatitis B virus.
• Combination Vaccines: Some combination vaccines include Hepatitis B along with other vaccines such as diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), or Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

Consume Type:

• Injection: The Hepatitis B vaccine is administered through an intramuscular injection, typically in the upper arm.

Directions/Usage:

• The vaccine is administered in a 3-dose series for adults (0, 1, and 6 months). The first dose is given at the initial visit, the second dose is given one month later, and the third dose is given 6 months after the first.
• For infants: The first dose is often given shortly after birth, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.

Common Side Effects:

• Mild side effects:
  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
  • Low-grade fever.
  • Fatigue.
  • Headache or mild discomfort.
• Rare side effects:
  • Severe allergic reactions (e.g., difficulty breathing, rash, swelling of the face or throat).
  • Joint pain (arthralgia).
  • Nausea.

Package Type:

• The vaccine is typically packaged in vials or pre-filled syringes for single-use doses.
• Multi-dose vials are also available for use in clinics or healthcare settings.

Storage Advice:

• Temperature: Store the vaccine in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze.
• Expiry: Always check the expiration date before use. Once opened, the vaccine should be used promptly.

Safety Advice:

• Consult with healthcare providers: Individuals with allergies to yeast or any components of the vaccine should avoid it.
• Precautions: People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine or any of its components should not receive the vaccine.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The vaccine is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding but should be used under medical advice.

Product Substitutes:

• Recombivax HB: Another brand of Hepatitis B vaccine.
• Engerix-B: Another brand of the recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

• • Merck & Co. (Recombivax HB)
  • GlaxoSmithKline (Engerix-B)
  • Sanofi Pasteur
  • Serum Institute of India

Country of Origin:

• United States