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Engerix-B

Generic name: hepatitis B vaccine [HEP-a-TYE-tis-B-a-ADULT-VAX-een]

Dosage form: recombinant injection, suspension
Drug class: viral vaccines

What is Engerix-B?

The vaccine Engerix-B is used to assist in preventing the spread of hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is a liver disease that may result in mild ill-health lasting for a couple of weeks, or it could lead to a severe, long-lasting illness.The Engerix-B vaccine can help your body build up immunity against the illness, but it does not treat a disease that you are already suffering from.Hepatitis B is a condition of the liver. It can be transmitted via bodily fluids or blood sexual contact, sharing needles for IV drugs with an infected individual, or during pregnancy in which the mom is suffering from the disease. Hepatitis can cause liver inflammation, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin). Hepatitis may lead to the development of liver cancer, liver cirrhosis, or even death.It is recommended to get the Engerix-B vaccine for everyone who is susceptible to contracting hepatitis B. As with all vaccines, the hepatitis B vaccine might not offer protection against disease for all people.

Acute hepatitis B virus is a temporary disease that can cause fatigue, fever, appetite loss, nausea, jaundice, vomiting (yellow eyes or skin), dark urine, clay-colored stool movements, and muscle pain in joints, stomachs, and joints.Chronic hepatitis B virus is a long-term disease that is caused as long as the hepatitis B virus is present in the body of an individual. The majority of people who develop chronic hepatitis B don't show any symptoms; however, it's nonetheless very serious and could result in damage to the liver (cirrhosis) as well as liver cancer and death. People who are chronically infected can transmit the hepatitis B virus to other people, even if they don't appear or feel sick themselves.

Side effects of Engerix-B

Take immediate medical attention. If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergy reaction, Engerix B: hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your lips, face, and throat.Note down any adverse reactions you experience. If you are in need of an injection booster, it is necessary to inform the vaccine provider whether the shot you received before has caused any adverse side effects.The Hepatitis B adult vaccine may cause serious side effects. Contact your physician immediately if you are suffering from:

  • A lightheaded sensation, similar to what you're passing out;
  • Seizure-like muscle movements;
  • Fever, swollen glands

Common Engerix-B side effects could include:

  • Headache;
  • Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness;
  • Tiredness;
  • Swelling, redness, pain, or lumps at the site of the shot.

This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Contact your doctor for advice regarding adverse effects. You may report adverse reactions to your US Department of Health and Human Services by dialing 1 800 822 7967.

Warnings

Engerix-B does not provide protection against hepatitis B, even if you're already infected by the virus or do not have any signs.Being infected by hepatitis B is far more hazardous for your health than getting hepatitis B.Engerix-B is not recommended if you have an allergy to yeast.Do not get another dose of Engerix-B if it is believed that you experienced a life-threatening allergic reaction following the first dose.Inform your doctor if you take other medications or suffer from any medical conditions or allergies.

Similar/related drugs

Hepatitis B adult vaccine, Twinrix, Heplisav-B, and Pediarix

Before you take this drug

Engerix B is not a defense against the infection caused by hepatitis B, C, and E, as well as other viruses that attack the liver. It is also unlikely to be able to protect against the infection of hepatitis B, even if you're already suffering from this virus and don't yet have symptoms.You shouldn't receive Engerix B in the event that you've had an allergy that could be life-threatening. That is, hepatitis B.To ensure that Engerix B is suitable for you, inform your doctor or the person who administers vaccinations whether you've had:

  • Were in contact with or had sexual contact with someone affected by the Hepatitis B virus;
  • Diabetes, HIV, or AIDS;
  • Injecting drugs into a vein
  • Employed or lived in a facility that caters to developmentally disabled persons;
  • Employed in the field of healthcare or public safety, or were exposed to bodily fluids and blood;
  • Visited areas in which hepatitis B is a regular occurrence
  • Resided or worked in a correctional institution;
  • Being the victim of assault or sexual abuse;
  • Hepatitis C is persistent in the liver and
  • Kidney disease (or kidney disease if you're taking dialysis).

The vaccine with Engerix B may have to be delayed or perhaps not even given in the event that you:

  • An allergy to yeast
  • An allergy to the latex
  • An immune system that is weak (caused through illness or taking certain medicines).

You may still get the vaccine even if you've got an illness that is not serious. If you have a more severe illness, such as a high fever or other disease, wait until it improves before you can receive Engerix-B.Inform your doctor if you are nursing or pregnant.If you're expecting, then your name might be added to a registry for pregnant women to monitor the effects of the hepatitis B vaccine on your baby.

How to take Engerix B?

Engerix-B can be given in the form of an injection (shot) into the muscle. The healthcare professional will give the injection.Engerix B is available in a sequence of three or four shots. The following shots are typically taken between 1 and 6 months after the first shot.Your specific vaccination schedule could differ from these guidelines. Follow the advice of your doctor or the recommended schedule by the district health center.Make sure you receive the recommended doses of Engerix B. Otherwise, you might not be completely protected from the disease.Engerix-B may affect the results of certain tests. Inform any physician who treats you if you've just received the hepatitis B vaccination.

Details on dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Hepatitis B Prophylaxis:

Primary Vaccination:
Engerix-B:
19 and under 3 doses (0.5 milliliters each) intramuscularly according to the 0, 1, and 6-month timetable
20 years or older 20 years and older: Age 20 and over: Three doses (1 mL each) intramuscularly on the 0, 1, or 6-month timetable
The Known or Presumed Hepatitis B Exposure: Utilize the recommended doses of (above) on a 0, 1, or 6 month timetable or a 0, 1, 2, and 12 month timetable.
Comments:
Administration of the hepatitis B immune globulins if necessary.
Start the hepatitis B vaccination as soon as you can after exposure.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Inform your doctor. If you do not receive the dose or fall behind on your schedule, The next dose must be given in the shortest time possible. There is no reason to start again.

What happens if I overdose?

A high dose of Engerix-B is not likely to occur.

What should be avoided?

Follow the instructions of your vaccine provider regarding any restrictions on food, drinks, or any activity.

Interaction with other drug

Before you receive Engerix-B, inform your doctor about any other vaccinations you've received.Other medications can affect Engerix-B, such as prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Discuss with your physician all the other medications you take.