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-B, 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.
What is hepatitis B immune globulin?
Hepatitis B immune globulin is made from human plasma containing proteins that protect
against the type B form of hepatitis (inflammation of the liver).
Hepatitis B immune globulin is used to prevent hepatitis B in people receiving a liver
transplant, and in babies born to mothers infected with hepatitis B. It is also used to prevent
hepatitis B in people who have been exposed to contaminated blood products, or through
household or sexual contact with an infected person.
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-B, Recombivax HB, or Twinrix.
Hepatitis B immune globulin may also be used for other purposes not listed in this
medication guide.
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