Immuno HBs

• Passive immunisation against hepatitis B infection
• Prophylaxis of hepatitis B recurrence after liver transplantation

Hepatitis B immunoglobulins contain specific neutralising antibodies (mainly IgG) that provide passive immunisation for individuals exposed to the hepatitis B virus. It is used for post-exposure prophylaxis in persons who are not vaccinated, or whose prior vaccination regimen is incomplete or when the antibody level is <10 IU/ml. It may also be used in haemodialysis patients and receptors of certain blood products who are unable to develop adequate immune protection.

Adult Dose (IM):

• Passive immunisation: 500 IU as a single dose (within 48 hours of exposure, not >1 week)

Adult Dose (IV - Liver Transplantation):

• 20,000 IU/dose
• Initially: 1 dose with liver transplant
• 1st week: 1 dose daily (day 1-7)
• Week 2-12: 1 dose every 2 weeks
• From 4th month: 1 dose monthly

Child Dose (IM):

• <5 years: 200 IU
• 5-9 years: 300 IU
• >10 years: 500 IU
• Newborn (HBsAg-positive mother): 200 IU at birth or within 24 hours

* Use as directed by the registered physician

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Lightheadedness
• Malaise
• Pain, erythema and tenderness at injection site
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Arthralgia
• Myalgia

Serious: Anaphylaxis, Angioedema

Use in Pregnancy: Safety during pregnancy has not been established. Use with caution.

Precautions:

• Caution in patients with thrombocytopenia or coagulation disorders
• Hepatitis B immunoglobulin should not be given via IV injection (except liver transplantation)
• May cause drowsiness
• Caution in pregnancy and lactation

Overdose: Consequences of overdose are not known. Employ usual supportive measures.

Storage: Store in a refrigerator (2-8°C). Keep in outer carton to protect from light. Do not freeze.