Twinrix Adult

What is it?

A preparation of inactivated viruses for immunisation against hepatitis A and B. Available as a suspension in prep-prepared syringes comprising 720 ELISA units per ml of hepatitis A virus adsorbed on aluminium hydroxide and 20µg per ml of hepatitis l3 surface antigen adsorbed onto aluminium phosphate. Also, TWINRIX PAEDIATRIC, a suspension in pre-prepared syringes containing 360 ELISA units per 0.5ml of inactivated hepatitis A virus adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide and 10µg per 0.5ml of hepatitis B surface antigen adsorbed onto aluminium phosphate.

Medical Uses

Active immunisation against hepatitis A and B.

Dosage

Adults and children aged over 16 years, 1ml into deltoid muscle by intramuscular injection, repeated after 1 month and 6 months. For very rapid effect, 1ml in same way, repeated after 1 week, 3 weeks and 1 year. Children aged 12 months to 15 years, using paediatric suspension, 0.5ml by intramuscular injection into deltoid muscle (or thigh, in infants), repeated after 1 month and 6 months.

Special Care

Pregnancy; patients with lowered immunity may need extra doses.

Avoid Use

Severe infections and fever.

Known Side Effects

Reactions at injection site, nausea, dizziness, malaise, fever.

Manufacturer

Glaxosmithkline.