Hepatitis B Vaccine (hep-ah-TY-tiss B vak-seen)

Prevents infection caused by hepatitis B virus.

Brand Name(s):

Engerix-B, Engerix-B Pediatric, Recombivax HB Pediatric/Adolescent, Recombivax HB

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.
• The vaccine requires 3 shots in the shoulder muscle.
• After the first dose, two more doses are given 1 month and 6 months after the first dose, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• Your nurse or doctor will give the shots.

If a dose is missed:

• It is important that you receive all three doses at the right time. If you miss your scheduled shot, call your doctor to make another appointment as soon as possible.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using medicines that weaken your immune system, such as a steroid or cancer treatment.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have an immune system disorder (such as HIV), or an active infection with symptoms of fever or chills. Your doctor should know if you have multiple sclerosis, if you are allergic to latex rubber, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a drug.
• This vaccine may not protect you against hepatitis B if you are already infected at the time you receive the shot.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash.
• Fast or pounding heartbeat.
• Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
• Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in your upper stomach.
• Light-headedness or fainting.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.
• Yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, diarrhea, upset stomach.
• Fever, chills, sweating.
• Headache, dizziness, tiredness.
• Mild skin rash or itching.
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
• Pain, redness, swelling, itching, bruising, or a lump under your skin where the shot is given.