Hepatitis B Immune Globulin

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What is the most important information I should know about hepatitis B immune globulin?

Hepatitis B immune globulin is not a vaccine. Therefore it will not provide long-term protection from hepatitis B. For long-term protection you must receive a hepatitis B vaccine such as Engerix, Recombivax HB, or Twinrix.

You should not receive this medication if you are allergic to human globulins, or if you have an immunoglobulin A deficiency. Hepatitis B immune globulin should not be injected into your muscle if you have a bleeding or blood clotting disorder such as hemophilia.

Hepatitis B immune globulin is made from human plasma (part of the blood) and may contain viruses and other infectious agents that can cause disease. Although donated human plasma is screened, tested, and treated to reduce the risk of it containing anything that could cause disease, there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested often. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with hepatitis B immune globulin. Your liver function will also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Do not receive a "live" vaccine while you are being treated with hepatitis B immune globulin, and for at least 3 months after your treatment ends. The live vaccine may not work as well during this time, and may not fully protect you from disease.

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Last updated:	June 13, 2007