Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B Vaccine injection

What is this medicine?

HEPATITIS A VACCINE; HEPATITIS B VACCINE (hep uh TAHY tis A vak SEEN; hep uh TAHY tis B vak SEEN) is a vaccine to protect from an infection with the hepatitis A and B virus. This vaccine does not contain the live viruses. It will not cause a hepatitis infection.

How should I use this medicine?

This vaccine is for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health care professional.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• confused, irritated

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• flu-like syndrome

• numb, tingling pain

• seizures

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• fever

• headache

• loss of appetite

• muscle pain

• nausea

• pain, redness, swelling, or irritation at site where injected

• tiredness

What may interact with this medicine?

• medicines that suppress your immune function like adalimumab, anakinra, infliximab

• medicines to treat cancer

• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• bleeding disorder

• fever or infection

• heart disease

• immune system problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to hepatitis A or B vaccine, neomycin, yeast, thimerosal, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

See your health care provider for all shots of this vaccine as directed. You must have 3 to 4 shots of this vaccine for protection from hepatitis A and B infection. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious or unusual side effects after getting this vaccine.