Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (Injection)

Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (hep-a-TYE-tis B im-MYOON GLOB-yoo-lin)

Helps keep you from getting sick if you have been exposed to hepatitis B.

Brand Name(s):

Bayhep B, Nabi-HB, Nabi-HB NovaPlus
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any kind of immune globulin. Make sure your doctor knows if you have IgA deficiency, which is a rare problem with your immune system.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot into one of your muscles.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• This medicine works best if you receive it soon after being exposed to hepatitis B. If you had sexual contact with a person who has hepatitis B, you should receive this medicine within 14 days. If you were exposed some other way, you should receive this medicine within 24 hours of being exposed to hepatitis B.
• You may need to have a second dose of medicine one month after the first dose. Make sure you understand the schedule if you need to have a second dose.
• This medicine may be given to a baby if the baby's mother has hepatitis B. The baby is often given the medicine within 12 hours after birth. Ask your doctor about the schedule if your baby needs this medicine.
• Hepatitis B vaccine is often used in addition to hepatitis B immune globulin. Make sure you understand if you also need the vaccine.

If a dose is missed:

• Call your doctor, pharmacist, treatment clinic, or home health caregiver for instructions.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines within 3 months of receiving hepatitis B immune globulin. Vaccines may not work as well while you are using this medicine. It is okay to get the hepatitis B vaccine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have bleeding problems

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Pain or redness where the shot was given
• Headache, muscle pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.