Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Hepatitis A Vaccine

Generic Name : Hepatitis A Vaccine

Pronunciation : HEP a TYE tis

Trade Name(s): 
India- Avaxim, Avaxim 80U, Biovac-A Inj, Twinrex Junior Inj, Twinrix Inj, Harvixinj.
International- Havrix, Vaqta.


Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is a vaccine given to individuals over 2 years of age to prevent hepatitis A infection. It stimulates the body to produce antibodies against hepatitis A infection.




When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Severe immunodeficiency, allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of any hepatitis A-containing vaccine, or to any component of Hepatitis A vaccine including neomycin.


Malignant disease being treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy and for at least 6 months after stopping treatment.


Patients with compromised immune system such as those on high-dose systemic corticosteroids, immunosuppressant or HIV positive.







Pregnancy Category :












A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


When it is to be taken : 
IM- Single dose of 0.5 or 1 ml depending on the product and patient's age. Give booster dose 6-12 months after the initial dose. Give via subcutaneous administration in haemophiliacs.

How it should be taken : 
It comes as a solution for injection administered by a health care provider into the large muscle.




Special Instruction : 
*Hepatitis A vaccine becomes effective after a period of at least 2 weeks. A second dose is administered 6 to 12 months after the first dose.




*It should not be used in children younger than 12 months old.


*Alcohol or disinfectant used for cleaning the skin prior to injection should be allowed to evaporate completely before vaccination to prevent vaccine inactivation.


*Caution needed for patients with history of illnesses or infections, blood disorders, immune system disorders, any allergies, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Side Effects : 
Central Nervous System-
Headache and tiredness.

Local-

Redness, soreness, swelling, redness, or warmth at the injection site and indurations at injection site.

Miscellaneous-

Loss of appetite, mild fever, nausea and transient soreness.

Other Precautions : 
*For IM injection only. Not for IV or intradermal administration.


Storage Conditions : 
It is usually handled and stored by a health care provider.

No comments:

Post a Comment