Hepatitis B vaccine (Merck & Co.)

The hepatitis B vaccine is a recombinant subunit vaccine that prevents infection by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), a major cause of liver disease including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The first dose is recommended within 24 hours of birth, followed by one or two additional doses over the next several months. The vaccine works by inducing an immune response against the surface antigen of HBV (HBsAg), thereby providing immunity to future exposures. It is safe for use in infants, children, adults—including those with compromised immune systems—and pregnant or breastfeeding women. The most common side effects are mild and include pain at the injection site; serious adverse events are rare. Hepatitis B vaccines are produced using recombinant DNA technology and may be administered alone or as part of combination vaccines[1][4][5][8].

Brand names

Recombivax HBEngerix-BHeplisav-B

Other names

Hep B vaccineHBV vaccine