Havrix (Hepatitis A Virus (Inactivated), Algeldrate)

Havrix is indicated for the active immunization against hepatitis A in individuals who have not previously been exposed to the virus.

• Primary prevention of hepatitis A infection in adults and children aged 12 months and older.
• Pre‑travel protection for persons traveling to regions where hepatitis A is endemic.
• Use in outbreak settings to quickly establish herd immunity.
• Administration to individuals with chronic liver disease to reduce risk of severe hepatitis A.
• Recommended for healthcare workers and others at occupational risk of exposure.

The safety profile of Havrix reflects the typical reactions observed with inactivated viral vaccines.

Common

• Mild pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site that usually resolves within a few days.
• Low‑grade fever, often accompanied by chills, occurring within 24 hours after vaccination.
• Headache that may be transient and respond to over‑the‑counter analgesics.
• Fatigue or a general feeling of tiredness lasting one to two days.
• Mild muscle aches or joint discomfort in the days following injection.

Serious

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) characterized by difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, and a rapid pulse.
• Neurological events such as Guillain‑Barré syndrome, presenting with muscle weakness and tingling sensations, reported rarely.
• Persistent high fever, seizures, or other serious systemic reactions, which are extremely uncommon.

Before receiving Havrix, certain health considerations should be reviewed to ensure safe and effective immunization.

• Confirm that the individual has not previously received a complete hepatitis A vaccination series.
• Defer vaccination in persons with a known severe allergy to any component of the product, including algeldrate.
• Postpone administration during an acute moderate or severe febrile illness.
• Discuss pregnancy and breastfeeding status with a healthcare professional, as safety data are limited.
• Evaluate immune status; immunocompromised patients may have a reduced antibody response.

Havrix does not have many documented drug‑drug interactions, but certain substances and conditions may influence its administration or effectiveness.

Avoid

• Concurrent administration of other live vaccines at the same anatomical site.
• Use of immunosuppressive therapy that may markedly diminish the antibody response.

Use with caution

• Concurrent use of systemic corticosteroids or disease‑modifying antirheumatic drugs; monitor antibody levels.
• Administration in individuals receiving blood products or immunoglobulins; consider timing to avoid interference.
• Vaccination in patients undergoing chemotherapy; schedule appropriately to achieve optimal immunity.
• Patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis should be observed for any unusual local or systemic reactions.