Recombivax HB

Recombivax HB Vaccine Information

What Is Recombivax HB?

Recombivax HB^® (hepatitis B vaccine) is a vaccine used to provide protection against hepatitis B. It is approved for use in people of all ages.

It should be noted that the adult formulations of this vaccine, including the formulation for people on dialysis, will not be available in 2009, due to a hepatitis B vaccine shortage. The manufacturer expects to resume making the adult versions in 2010. Other options for adults needing a hepatitis B vaccine include Engerix-B^® (another hepatitis B vaccine) or Twinrix^® (a vaccine for hepatitis B and hepatitis A).

(Click Recombivax HB Uses for more information on what the vaccine is used for, including possible off-label indications.)

Thimerosal Content and Other Concerns

Recombivax HB 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.

Recombivax HB is not made from human fetal components or animal components, unlike some vaccines.

Who Makes Recombivax HB?

Recombivax HB is made by Merck & Co.

, Inc.

How Does Recombivax HB Work?

This vaccine contains hepatitis B surface antigens, which are proteins on the outer surface of the virus that can be recognized by the immune system. Unlike older versions of the hepatitis vaccine, currently available vaccines -- including Recombivax HB -- are not made using human blood products. Instead, they are made using recombinant DNA technology.

This vaccine is not "live"; this means there is absolutely no chance of a person getting hepatitis B from this product.

Simply stated, this vaccine "tricks" the body into thinking it has been exposed to the hepatitis B virus. The body produces antibodies in response that will help fight infection if future exposure occurs.

When and How to Get Vaccinated

Some general considerations to keep in mind with Recombivax HB include the following:

This vaccine is typically given as two or three doses, depending on the age of the individual.
For infants, this vaccine is injected into a muscle (intramuscularly), usually in the thigh. In adults and older children, the upper arm can be used.
If absolutely necessary, Recombivax HB can be injected subcutaneously (just under the skin), instead of intramuscularly. However, this method of injection might reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine and may increase the risk of certain side effects, such as lumps at the injection site.
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.

Dosing Information for Recombivax HB

The specific dosage and schedule for Recombivax HB will vary, depending on the following factors:

Your age
Your previous vaccination history
Your kidney function, especially if you are on dialysis.

(Click Recombivax HB Dosage for more information.)

Side Effects

Just like any vaccine, Recombivax HB 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 side effects 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 reactions are less common.

Some of the most common side effects seen with Recombivax HB include but are not limited to:

Irritability
Fever
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, or swelling.

(Click Recombivax HB Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)

Drug Interactions With Recombivax HB

Recombivax HB can potentially interact with a few medications (see Recombivax HB Drug Interactions).

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider before you receive this vaccine if you have:

An immune-suppressing condition, such as HIV or AIDS, diabetes, or cancer
Had any sort of a reaction to a vaccine
A moderate or severe illness
Any allergies, including to foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:

Pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant (see Recombivax HB and Pregnancy)
Breastfeeding (see Recombivax HB and Breastfeeding).

Make sure to tell the healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

(Click Recombivax HB Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)

Storing Recombivax HB

Recombivax HB should be stored in the refrigerator. The vaccine should never be frozen.

Available Forms

The vaccine is available in the following forms and strengths:

Recombivax HB pediatric/adolescent formulation (5 mcg/0.5 mL), available as single-dose vials and prefilled syringes
Recombivax HB adult formulation (10 mcg/1 mL), available as single-dose vials and prefilled syringes
Recombivax HB dialysis formulation (40 mcg/1 mL), available as single-dose vials.

Again, keep in mind that the adult and dialysis formulations of this vaccine will not be available in 2009, due to a hepatitis B vaccine shortage. The manufacturer expects to resume making the adult versions in 2010. Other options for adults needing a hepatitis B vaccine include Engerix-B or Twinrix.

Is There a Generic Version of Recombivax HB?

This vaccine is not available in generic form (see Generic Recombivax HB).