Hepavax-B IM Injection

Each 0.5 ml dose contains >10 mcg of hepatitis B surface antigen adsorbed on Aluminium Hydroxide gel equivalent to Al³⁺ 0.25 mg.

Each 1 ml dose contains >20 mcg of hepatitis B surface antigen adsorbed on Aluminium Hydroxide gel equivalent to Al³⁺ 0.5 mg.

Hepavax-B is a noninfectious recombinant DNA Hepavax-B. It is sterile suspension of purified surface antigen of hepatitis B virus obtained by culturing genetically engineered yeast cells (Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells), which carry the gene that codes for the HBsAg. The HBsAg protein expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells is purified by several physicochemical steps and formulated as a suspension of the antigen adsorbed on aluminium hydroxide. No substances of human origin are used in its manufacture.

Neonates, infants and children upto 19 years of age: The recommended dose of Hepatitis B vaccine (rDNA) is >10 mcg of antigen protein in 0.5 ml.

Adults 19 years of age and older: The recommended dose of Hepatitis B vaccine (rDNA) is >20 mcg of antigen in 1 ml.

Primary immunization schedule for all ages:
The usual immunization schedule consists of 3 doses of vaccine-

• First dose: at elected date
• Second dose: 1 month after first dose
• Third dose: 6 months after first dose

or accelerated schedule consists of 4 doses of vaccine-

• First dose: at elected date
• Second dose: 1 month after first dose
• Third dose: 2 months after first dose
• Fourth dose: 12 months after first dose

Accelerated schedule confer protection more quickly and is expected to provide better patient compliance.

Neonate born to hepatitis B surface antigen-positive mother, 4 doses of 10 micrograms:

• First dose: at birth with Hepatitis B immunoglobulin injection (separate site)
• Second dose: 1 month after first dose
• Third dose: 2 months after first dose
• Fourth dose: 12 months after first dose

For travellers departing within 1 month, adult over 18 years,

• First dose: at elected date
• Second dose: 7 days after first dose
• Third dose: 21 days after first dose
• Fourth dose: 12 months after first dose

Renal insufficiency (including haemodialysis patients), adult and child over 16 years 4 doses of 40 micrograms-

• First dose: at the appropriate date
• Second dose: 1 month after first dose
• Third dose: 2 months after first dose
• Fourth dose: 6 months after first dose

Immunization schedule and booster doses may need to be adjusted in those with low antibody concentration.

Booster vaccinations: For persons with normal immune status who have been vaccinated, booster doses of
Hepatitis B vaccine has not been established. However, booster doses are recommended for hemodialysis patients or other immunocompromised persons.

Method of administration: Hepatitis B Vaccine is for intramuscular injection only. Do not inject intravenously. Hepatitis B Vaccine should be given intramuscularly in the deltoid muscle of adult and children or in the anterolateral aspect of thigh in children under 1 year.

Preparation for administration: The vaccine should be shaken well before use to obtain a homogenous turbid white suspension. Do not shake vigorously. The vaccine should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. If either of these conditions exists, the vaccine should not be administered. The vaccine should be used as supplied; no dilution is necessary

Co-administration: Hepatitis B vaccine can be given at the same time with other vaccine as Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTP), Polio (OPV), Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), Haemophilus influenzae b, Hepatitis A and BCG vaccines at separate sites and with separate syringes. It should not be mixed with other vaccines or medicinal products in the same syringe.

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.

Hepavax-B is generally well tolerated. Most recipients of Hepavax-B 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.

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.

Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin

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.