Meningococcal Haemophilus influenzae type b Conjugate Vaccine

What is this medicine?

MENINGOCOCCAL HAEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE TYPE B CONJUGATE VACCINE (muh ning goh KOK kal hem OFF fil us in floo En zuh CON ju gate ed vak SEEN) is a vaccine to protect against bacterial meningitis and prevent infections of the Haemophilus bacteria. This vaccine does not contain live bacteria. It will not cause a meningitis.

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. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 weeks old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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

• feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

• high fever

• muscle weakness

• seizures

• unusually weak or tired

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

• irritable

• loss of appetite

• low-grade fever

• pain, redness, or irritation at site where injected

• tiredness

What may interact with this medicine?

• medicines that lower your chance of fighting infection

• medicines to treat cancer

• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up doses as directed. 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:

• fever or infection

• history of Guillain-Barre syndrome

• immune system problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to vaccines, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor for regular check-ups as directed.

This vaccine, like all vaccines, may not fully protect everyone.