Hepatitis A; Hepatitis B Vaccine Injection

What is this medication?

HEPATITIS A; HEPATITIS B VACCINE (hep uh TAHY tis A; hep uh TAHY tis B vak SEEN) reduces the risk of hepatitis A and B. It does not treat hepatitis A or B. It is still possible to get hepatitis A or B after receiving this vaccine, but the symptoms may be less severe or not last as long. It works by helping your immune system learn how to fight off a future infection.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Twinrix

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

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, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This vaccine is injected into a muscle. It is given by your care team.

A copy of Vaccine Information Statements will be given before each vaccination. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. This sheet may change often.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication 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 care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What may interact with this medication?

• Certain medications that suppress your immune function, such as adalimumab, anakinra, infliximab
• Certain medications to treat cancer
• Steroid medications, such as 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?

See your care team 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 care team right away if you have any serious or unusual side effects after getting this vaccine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Burning or tingling sensation in hands or feet
• Feeling faint or lightheaded

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

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site

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 vaccine is only given by your care team. It 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.