Drugs & Vitamins

Haemophilus Influenzae type b Conjugate Vaccine Active Ingredients: Haemophilus Influenzae type b Conjugate Vaccine Representative Names: ActHIB, HibTITER, PedvaxHIB What is Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine? What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine? How should I use this medicine? What if I miss a dose? What drug(s) may interact with Haemophilus influenza type b conjugate vaccine? What side effects may I notice from receiving Haemophilus influenza type b conjugate vaccine? What should I watch for while taking Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine? Where can I keep my medicine? What is Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) 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? (Back to top) •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 side effects may I notice from receiving Haemophilus influenza type b conjugate vaccine? (Back to top) 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. What should I watch for while taking Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine? (Back to top) 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. Where can I keep my medicine? (Back to top) This does not apply. You will not store vaccine doses at home. Last Updated:11/03/2005 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY© GOLD STANDARD MULTIMEDIA INC, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.