Havrix Hepatitis A Vaccine Description

Havrix vaccine is a sterile suspension of inactivated virus strain HM175, propagated in MRC-5 human diploid cells.

After removing the cell culture medium, the cells are lysed to form a suspension. This suspension is purified through ultrafiltration and gel permeation chromatography procedures.

Treatment of this lysate with formalin ensures viral inactivation.

Learn more about GSK hepatitis vaccines. 

Havrix Hepatitis A Vaccine Indication

HAVRIX is a vaccine for active immunization against disease caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). HAVRIX is approved for use in persons 12 months of age and older. Primary immunization should be administered at least 2 weeks before expected exposure to HAV.

Severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of any hepatitis A-containing vaccine or to any component of HAVRIX, including neomycin, is a contraindication to the administration of HAVRIX.

The prefilled syringes' tip caps for HAVRIX contain natural rubber latex, which may cause allergic reactions.

Havrix Hepatitis A Vaccine Dosage

Havrix is administered by intramuscular injection.

Children and adolescents: A single 0.5-mL dose and a 0.5-mL booster dose administered between 6 to 12 months later. Adults: A single 1-mL dose and a 1-mL booster dose administered between 6 to 12 months later. Primary immunization should be administered at least 2 weeks before expected exposure to HAV.

In clinical trials with HAVRIX in children 11 to 25 months of age, the most common solicited adverse reactions were injection-site pain and redness, irritability, drowsiness, and appetite loss.

In clinical trials with HAVRIX in adults and children 2 years of age and older, the most common solicited adverse reactions were injection-site soreness and headache.