Heplisav-B

Generic name:hepatitis B adult vaccine [ HEP-a-TYE-tis-B-a-DULT-VAX-een ]
Brand names: Engerix-B, Heplisav-B, Recombivax HB Adult, Recombivax HB Dialysis Formulation
Drug class:Viral vaccines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 7, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is hepatitis B vaccine?

Hepatitis B 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 Heplisav-B is used to help prevent this disease in adults. The dialysis form of this vaccine is for adults receiving dialysis.

This vaccine helps your body develop immunity to hepatitis B, but it will not treat an active infection you already have.

Vaccination with Heplisav-B is recommended for all adults who are at risk of getting hepatitis B. Risk factors include: living with someone infected with hepatitis B virus; having sexual contact with infected people; having hepatitis C, chronicliver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, HIV or AIDS; being on dialysis; using intravenous (IV) drugs; living or working in a facility for developmentally disabled people; working in healthcare or public safety and being exposed to blood or body fluids; living or working in a correctional facility; being a victim of sexual abuse or assault; and traveling to areas where hepatitis B is common.

Like any vaccine, the hepatitis B vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.