Anthrax Vaccine, Adsorbed injection

What is this medication?

ANTHRAX VACCINE, ADSORBED (AN thraks VAK seen, ad SAWRB) is a vaccine. It is used to prevent infections of anthrax. People at high risk for exposure include people that work with animals or animal by-products. Routine immunization with this vaccine is not recommended. This vaccine is not approved to prevent anthrax infection after exposure. This vaccine cannot cause anthrax infection.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Biothrax

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

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

• anthrax exposure or infection
• fever or infection
• Guillain-Barre syndrome
• immune system problems
• an unusual or allergic reaction to vaccines, latex, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is for injection under the skin or for injection into a muscle. It is given by a health care professional.

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

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up (booster) 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.

What may interact with this medication?

• adalimumab
• anakinra
• infliximab
• medicines that suppress your immune system
• medicines to treat cancer
• steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your doctor for regular check-ups as directed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

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
• changes in hearing or vision
• fever over 101 degrees F
• seizures
• unusual bruising or bleeding
• 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):

• aches or pains
• bruising, pain, swelling at site where injected
• headache
• low-grade fever, chills
• loss of appetite
• loss of energy
• nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

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

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.