HepaGam B

Generic name: Hepatitis B immune globulin

What is HepaGam B?

HepaGam B is used to treat patients who have had a brief encounter (ingestion or sexual contact) with blood contaminated by the hepatitis B virus. The injection can also be used for babies born to HBV-infected mothers.

What is the most important information I should know about HepaGam B?

HepaGam B is made from human plasma and therefore may contain viruses or other pathogens. The plasma is screened and cleaned of viruses such as HIV, HBV, and hepatitis C virus (HCV), but may contain infections such as Creutzfeldt-Jacob ("mad cow") disease.

HepaGam B contains a type of sugar (maltose) that may interfere with antidiabetes treatments.

Who should not take HepaGam B?

Do not take HepaGam B if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of HepaGam B?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with HepaGam B. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are diabetic, pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage for exposure to HBV blood/plasma is an injection of 0.06 milliliters (mL)/kilogram (kg) of body weight as soon as possible after exposure (within 24 hours if possible).

Infants: The usual dosage for a baby born to an infected mother is 0.5 mL after the baby is stable, but within 12 hours of birth.

How should I take HepaGam B?

HepaGam B should be injected by your nurse or doctor in the upper leg (thigh), upper arm, or buttocks. If it is injected in the buttocks, it should only be given in the upper or outer regions, not in the center.

What should I avoid while taking HepaGam B?

Avoid receiving any other types of vaccinations within 3 months of treatment with HepaGam B.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with HepaGam B?

If HepaGam B is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining HepaGam B with any other vaccination. All other vaccinations should be avoided for at least 3 months; you may have to be revaccinated with HepaGam B after receiving a different type of live vaccination.

What are the possible side effects of HepaGam B?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: injection-site pain, aching joints, muscle pain, allergic reaction, chills, cold/flu symptoms, fainting, fever, headache, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting

Can I receive HepaGam B if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of HepaGam B during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of HepaGam B?

HepaGam B is only administered under very specific circumstances in a hospital or office setting.

How should I store HepaGam B?

HepaGam B is only administered under very specific circumstances in a hospital or office setting.