Haemophilus influenzae type b Conjugate Vaccine injection
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What is Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine?
HAEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE TYPE B CONJUGATE VACCINE (HibTITER®, PedvaxHIB®) protects against an infection with Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) bacteria. Hib causes serious disease with respiratory (lung) infections and breathing difficulties. The vaccine gives immunity by helping the body to produce antibodies (immune or protective substances that will fight the disease). These antibodies are specific to the Hib bacteria. Haemophilus b vaccine is part of an immunization program for children between 2 months old and 5 years old. Some adults may also be at high risk from Hib infection, these include: residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities; patients with chronic kidney failure, heart or lung disease, or blood disorders; patients with immunosuppression (such as cancer, or AIDS). Generic haemophilus b vaccine is available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an immune deficiency (natural or due to cancer chemotherapy, radiation, or steroid therapy)
• fever or infection
• an unusual or allergic reaction to vaccines, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This vaccine is only for injection into a muscle. It is usually given by a health-care professional in a hospital, clinic or prescriber's office. This vaccine is primarily for children under 5 years old, but may be given to older patients in a high risk category.
What if I miss a dose?
Remember to keep appointments for follow-up doses. Notify your health-care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment, or miss a scheduled dose.What drug(s) may interact with Haemophilus influenza type b conjugate vaccine?
• adalimumab
• anakinra
• chemotherapy
• etanercept
• high doses of corticosteroids (example: prednisone)
• infliximab
• other medicines that suppress your immune function
Tell your prescriber or health care professional: about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines. These may affect the way your medicine works.
What should I watch for while taking Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine?
The normal vaccine schedule calls for two doses, the second dose 2 months after the first, if the child is under 1 year old. A booster dose is necessary at 12 to 15 months old, but must be at least 2 months after the last dose. Children over 15 months old only need one injection. Check with your prescriber or health care professional. It is important to have the full course of injections.
What side effects may I notice from receiving Haemophilus influenza type b conjugate vaccine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• confusion
• difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing
• extreme irritability or weakness
• fever over 102 degrees
• seizures (convulsions)
• severe rash, itching (hives)
• swelling of eyes or face
Call your prescriber or health care professional as soon as you can if you get any of these reactions within two weeks of receiving the vaccine.
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea
• headache
• low-grade fever (102 degrees F or less)
• muscle aches and pains
• nausea
• pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• tiredness
Let your prescriber or health care professional know about these side effects if they continue for more than 72 hours or if they get severe.
Where can I keep my medicine?
This does not apply. You will not store vaccine doses at home.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
