Infanrix-Ipv (Pertussis Filamentous Haemagglutinin Adsorbed On Aluminium Hydroxide, Hydrated, Pertussis Toxoid Ads)

Infanrix-Ipv is a combination vaccine that targets bacterial and viral agents responsible for several serious childhood diseases.

• Diphtheria: induces protective immunity against Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
• Tetanus: stimulates antibodies that neutralize tetanus toxin.
• Pertussis (whooping cough): generates immunity to pertussis antigens, reducing disease severity.
• Poliomyelitis: elicits antibodies that prevent infection by poliovirus strains.

• Infanrix-Ipv contains purified pertussis filamentous haemagglutinin and pertussis toxoid adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide, together with diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid and inactivated poliovirus. After intramuscular injection, the antigens are taken up by antigen‑presenting cells, prompting a T‑cell‑dependent response that leads to the production of specific antibodies and memory cells, thereby establishing active immunity against each pathogen.

Common Side Effects

• Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site.
• Low‑grade fever within 24–48 hours.
• Irritability or fussiness in infants.
• Mild headache or fatigue.
• Transient loss of appetite.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) with difficulty breathing.
• High fever persisting more than 48 hours.
• Seizures (rare febrile convulsions).
• Persistent crying or inconsolable distress.
• Neurological symptoms such as weakness or paralysis.
• Signs of Guillain‑Barré syndrome.

Infanrix-Ipv should be administered by a qualified healthcare professional following national immunisation schedules.

• Contraindication: known severe allergy to any vaccine component.
• Caution: postpone vaccination if the child has a moderate or severe acute illness.
• Monitor: observe the patient for at least 15 minutes after injection for immediate reactions.
• Pregnancy: vaccine is not indicated for use during pregnancy; consult a physician.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Vaccines generally have limited drug‑drug interactions, but certain conditions may modify immune response.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Live bacterial or viral vaccines administered concurrently.
• Immunoglobulin therapy given within 2 weeks of vaccination.
• High‑dose corticosteroids started within 2 weeks before or after vaccination.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Immunosuppressive agents (e.g., chemotherapy) may reduce vaccine efficacy.
• Antipyretics taken prophylactically may mask fever response.
• Antihistamines may lessen local allergic signs but do not prevent serious reactions.