Recombivax HB
® (
hepatitis B vaccine) is a vaccine that protects against
hepatitis B. It is typically given as a series of two or three injections, depending on your age and other factors. The vaccine works by "tricking" the body into thinking it has been exposed to the
hepatitis B virus. Because the product is not a "live" vaccine, there is absolutely no chance of getting the disease from your vaccination.
Side effects of this vaccine are typically mild. In fact, most people do not experience any problems after getting vaccinated. In clinical studies, the most common side effects reported with Recombivax HB included reactions at the injection site, irritability, fatigue, and fever.
Due to a hepatitis B vaccine shortage, the adult formulations of this product are not expected to be available until 2010. Fortunately, other vaccines are available if you need to get inoculated against hepatitis B before then.
(Click Recombivax HB for more information on this vaccine. This article takes an in-depth look at the uses of this product, precautions to be aware of, dosing guidelines, and more.)
