Hexavac

Hexavac is a vaccine used to protect against six different diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), hepatitis B, poliomyelitis (polio), and diseases caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).

Composition

Hexavac is a combined vaccine containing the following active substances:

• Diphtheria toxoid
• Tetanus toxoid
• Pertussis toxoid
• Filamentous haemagglutinin
• Pertactin
• Hepatitis B surface antigen
• Poliovirus (inactivated) types 1, 2 and 3
• Haemophilus influenzae type b polysaccharide

Indications

Hexavac is indicated for primary and booster vaccination in infants and toddlers from six weeks of age against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B, poliomyelitis and diseases caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b.

Administration

The vaccine is administered by injection into a muscle, usually in the thigh or upper arm. The primary vaccination schedule consists of three doses, given one month apart, starting from the age of two months. A booster dose is given six months after the third dose.

Side Effects

Like all vaccines, Hexavac can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects include pain and redness at the injection site, fever, irritability, and loss of appetite.

Precautions

Hexavac should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine or to any of the substances used during the manufacture of the vaccine.

History

Hexavac was authorised for use in the European Union in 2000. However, it was withdrawn from the market in 2005 due to concerns about its long-term protection against hepatitis B.