Hepatitis A adult vaccine
Generic name: hepatitis A adult vaccine [ HEP-a-TYE-tis ]
Brand names: Havrix, Vaqta
Dosage form: intramuscular suspension (1440 units/mL preservative free; 50 units/mL)
Drug class:Viral vaccines
What is hepatitis A vaccine?
Hepatitis is a serious disease caused by a virus. Hepatitis causes inflammation of the liver, vomiting, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). Hepatitis can lead to liver cancer, cirrhosis, or death.
The hepatitis A adult vaccine is used to help prevent this disease in adults.
This vaccine works by exposing you to a small amount of the virus, which causes the body to develop immunity to the disease. This vaccine will not treat an active infection that has already developed in the body.
Vaccination with hepatitis A adult vaccine is recommended for all adults who travel in certain areas of the world where hepatitis A is a common disease.
Like any vaccine, the hepatitis A vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.
Before taking this medicine
Hepatitis A vaccine will not protect against infection with hepatitis B, C, and E, or other viruses that affect the liver. It may also not protect against hepatitis A if you are already infected with the virus, even without showing symptoms.
You should not receive this vaccine if you have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to any vaccine containing hepatitis A, or if you are allergic to neomycin.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
an allergy to latex rubber; or
a weak immune system (caused by disease or by using certain medicine).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How is this vaccine given?
This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle. You will receive this injection in a doctor's office or clinic setting.
You will receive a shot of the hepatitis A vaccine and then a booster shot 6 to 18 months later.
To prevent hepatitis A while traveling, you should receive this vaccine at least 2 weeks before your trip. Your healthcare provider will determine the best dosing schedule for your situation.
Your doctor may recommend treating fever and pain with an aspirin free pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or
