(Click Havrix Uses for more information on what the vaccine is used for, including possible off-label indications.)
Thimerosal Content and Other Concerns
Havrix does not contain thimerosal (a mercury-containing preservative). People who are concerned about exposure to this substance can be confident that this vaccine has no thimerosal -- not even trace amounts. Some people also are concerned about the aluminum content of vaccines. This vaccine contains 0.5 mg of aluminum per mL per adult dose and 0.25 mg of aluminum per pediatric dose.
Havrix is not made from animal components, unlike some vaccines. However, it is grown in a line of cells originally developed from lung tissue of an aborted human fetus.
Havrix is made by GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals.
Havrix contains inactivated (killed) hepatitis viruses.
Because this vaccine is not "live," there is no chance that a person could get hepatitis A from it.
Simply stated, Havrix allows the body to be exposed to the
hepatitis A virus without risking the actual disease. The body produces antibodies that will help fight infection if future exposure occurs.
When and How to Take Havrix
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking Havrix include the following:
- This vaccine is typically given as two doses, with 6 to 12 months between doses.
- Havrix is injected into a muscle (intramuscularly), usually in the thigh for young children. In adults and older children, the upper arm can be used.
- People can be vaccinated if they have a minor illness, such as the common cold. However, the vaccine should be postponed if the individual is moderately or severely ill.
There are two different doses of this vaccine: one for adults and one for children. However, the schedule is the same for adults and for children.
Side Effects of Havrix
Just like any vaccine, Havrix can cause side effects. However, not everyone who receives the vaccine will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it well, with only minor side effects, if any.
If adverse reactions do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious problems are less common.
Some of the most common side effects seen with Havrix include, but are not limited to:
- Soreness at the injection site
- Headache
- Nausea.
(Click Havrix Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
Prior to receiving this vaccination, talk with your healthcare provider if you have:
- An immune-suppressing condition, such as HIV or AIDS, diabetes, or cancer
- Had any sort of a reaction to a vaccine before
- A moderate or severe illness
- Any allergies, including to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell the healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
How Should Havrix Be Stored?
Havrix should be stored in the refrigerator. It should never be frozen.
This vaccine is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Havrix pediatric/adolescent formulation (0.5 mL) single-dose vials and prefilled syringes
- Havrix adult formulation (1 mL) single-dose vials and prefilled syringes.
The prefilled syringes contain dry natural latex rubber, while the vials are free of latex.
Is There a Generic Version of Havrix?
