Engerix B

What is it?

A genetically derived suspension of hepatitis B surface antigen (from yeast cells) containing 20µg per ml adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide, in vials or pre-filled syringes.

Medical Uses

Immunization against the Hepatitis B virus.

Dosage

Adults and children aged over 15 years, first dose, lml by intramuscular injection into the deltoid muscle (upper arm) repeated after an interval of 1 month and 6 months. For more rapid protection, the same dose is given but repeated after 1 month and 2 months. For very rapid protection, the same dose is given but repeated after 1 week, 3 weeks and then at 1 year. If there has been known, recent exposure to the virus, hepatitis B immunoglobulin should additionally be administered, at the same time as the first injection of Engerix B, but using a different injection site. Children aged under 15 years, first dose of 0.5ml by intramuscular injection into the thigh repeated after an interval of 1 month and 6 months. In children aged 10 to 15 years, a lml dose may be used in some circumstances. For rapid protection, the 0.5ml dose is given and then repeated at lmonth, 2 months and 1 year. New-born infants born to virus- positive mothers should receive hepatitis B immunoglobulin at the same time as the first injection of Engerix B, but using a different injection site.

Special Care

Pregnancy; patients receiving kidney dialysis or who have a deficient immune system may need to receive additional doses.

Avoid Use

Severe infections accompanied by fever.

Known Side Effects

Slight short-lived soreness at injection site, with inflammation and hardening, dizziness, feverishness, nausea, malaise, muscle and joint pain, tiredness.