Hepatitis A Adult Vaccine Dosage

Usual Adult Dose for Hepatitis A Prophylaxis

Havrix(R): 1 mL IM followed by a 1 mL booster dose 6 to 12 months following primary immunization.

VAQTA(R): 1 mL IM followed by a 1 mL booster dose 6 to 18 months after primary immunization.

Primary immunization is recommended at least 2 weeks before expected exposure to hepatitis A virus.

Immune globulin may be administered with the vaccine (at a different injection site) to patients requiring immediate prophylaxis or postexposure prophylaxis.

Renal Dose Adjustments

No adjustment recommended.

Liver Dose Adjustments

No adjustment recommended.

Precautions

Hepatitis A vaccine is contraindicated in patients who have had signs of hypersensitivity after a previous dose of any hepatitis A vaccine, or who are allergic to trace substances (e.g., neomycin) which may be present in certain formulations. The cap and plunger of Havrix(R) prefilled syringes contain latex, which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive patients.

Hepatitis A has a long incubation period. This vaccine may not prevent infection in persons with unrecognized infection at time of vaccination.

Anaphylaxis may occur, even in patients with no previous hypersensitivity to the vaccine ingredients. Epinephrine and other medications and equipment should be readily available to treat anaphylactic or severe allergic reactions.

Delaying vaccination should be considered in patients with febrile illnesses.

Caution is recommended in patients with thrombocytopenia or coagulation disorders that would contraindicate intramuscular injection.

The expected immune response may not occur in immunosuppressed patients.

Hepatitis A vaccine is only intended for intramuscular administration. Injection into a blood vessel should be avoided.

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients (less than 18 years of age).

Dialysis

Data not available.

Other Comments

The vaccine should be refrigerated to maintain potency. Avoid freezing and discard any vaccine that has been frozen.

The vaccine should be shaken well before withdrawing a dose and administering it.

The booster doses are interchangeable.

Health care providers should report any allergic or unusual adverse reactions to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967 (USA) and the manufacturer.