Hepatitis B vaccine (By injection)

Hepatitis B Vaccine (hep-a-TYE-tis B VAX-een)

Prevents infection caused by hepatitis B virus.

Brand Name(s):

Engerix-B, Engerix-B Pediatric, Recombivax HB, Recombivax HB Pediatric-Adolescent

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This vaccine may not be right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to hepatitis B vaccine, or if you are allergic to yeast.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.
This vaccine is usually given as 3 doses, but sometime 4 doses are needed.
Missed dose: It is important that you receive all doses at the right times. If you miss a scheduled shot, call your doctor to make another appointment as soon as possible.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Some foods and medicines can affect how hepatitis B vaccine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
- Cancer medicine
- Corticosteroid medicine (such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a weak immune system (such as from a disease or medicine the suppresses the immune system). Tell your doctor if you are allergic to latex or if you are on dialysis.
This vaccine may not protect you against hepatitis B infection if you are already infected with the virus at the time you receive the shot.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash
Lightheadedness or fainting

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Headache, dizziness
Pain, redness, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the shot is given
Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017