Hepatitis B Vaccine is indicated for active immunization against infection caused by all known subtypes of Hepatitis B virus. As Hepatitis D (caused by the delta virus) does not occur in the absence of Hepatitis B infection, it can be expected that Hepatitis D will also be prevented by Hepatitis B vaccination ... Read moreHepatitis B Vaccine is indicated for active immunization against infection caused by all known subtypes of Hepatitis B virus. As Hepatitis D (caused by the delta virus) does not occur in the absence of Hepatitis B infection, it can be expected that Hepatitis D will also be prevented by Hepatitis B vaccination.Immunization is recommended in persons of all ages, especially those who are, or will be, at increased risk of exposure to Hepatitis B virus, for example:A baby whose mother is infected can be infected at birth.Children, adolescents, and adults can become infected by: Contact with blood and body fluids through breaks in the skin such as bites, cuts, or sores Contact with objects that have blood or body fluids on them such as toothbrushes, razors or monitoring and treatment devices for diabetes Having unprotected sex with an infected person Sharing needles when injecting drugs Being stuck with a used needle Household contacts of people infected with Hepatitis B Residents and staff in institutions for the developmental^ disabled Kidney dialysis patients People who travel to countries where Hepatitis B is common People with HIV infection Persons with hemophilia, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, cirrhosis Military personnel identified as being at increased risk.Morticians and Embalmers.Prisoners.Users of illicit injectable drugs.Others: Police, fire department personnel, who render first aid or medical assistance, and any others who, through their work or personal life-style, may be exposed to the Hepatitis B virus.

Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin

Hepatitis B vaccines are used for active immunisation against hepatitis B infection. Two types of vaccine have been available each containing hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide or a similar adsorbent.

Reduced response to vaccination when used concurrently with immunosuppressants such as corticosteroids or antineoplastics.

Hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine, including yeast, is a contraindication. This vaccine is contraindicated in patients with previous hypersensitivity to any Hepatitis B virus containing vaccine.

Hepatitis B vaccine is generally well tolerated. Most recipients of Hepatitis B vaccine experience some reactions upon vaccination. These are generally moderate and short. They mainly consist of local reactions at the injection site (erythema, induration and tenderness). Systemic reactions (malaise, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, myalgia and elevated temperature) are reported less commonly. In very rare cases allergic type reactions (pruritus, rash, urticaria) may be observed.

Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the foetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.

If any alcohol or disinfectant is used for cleansing the skin it should be allowed to evaporate before vaccination otherwise inactivation of live vaccines may occur.

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Store at +2°C to +8°C. Transportation should also be at +2°C to +8°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.

Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin

The effect of Hepatitis B on fetal development or reproduction capacity has not been evaluated. However, it should only be used during pregnancy when there is a high risk of infection. Adequate human data on use during lactation and adequate animal reproduction studies are not available. It may be administered to nursing mothers only if clearly needed.