What is Engerix-B: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

What is Engerix-B: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025 • Published Dec 30, 2020

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Engerix-B overview

BRAND NAMES:

Engerix-B, Engerix-B Pediatric, Recombivax HB, Recombivax HB Pediatric-Adolescent

Generic Names:

Engerix-B

Uses:

Prevents infection caused by hepatitis B virus.

Therapeutic Classes:

Vaccine

Forms:

Injectable

How it’s taken:

By injection

What is Engerix-B used for?

What form(s) does Engerix-B come in

Injectable

What are common Engerix-B doses?

Syringe 0.5ML of 10MCG/0.5ML
Syringe 1ML of 20MCG/ML
Vial 1ML of 20MCG/ML

Common Engerix-B prescriptions

Engerix-B
0.5ml of 10mcg/0.5ml syringe
Engerix-B
1ml of 20mcg/ml syringe
Engerix-B
0.5ml of 10mcg/0.5ml vial
Engerix-B
1ml of 20mcg/ml vial

How to take Engerix-B

Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
Injection routeYour 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.
This vaccine is usually given as 3 doses, but sometime 4 doses are needed.
Missed dose: It is important that you receive all doses at the right times. If you miss a scheduled shot, call your doctor to make another appointment as soon as possible.
This vaccine is usually given as 3 doses, but sometime 4 doses are needed.
Injection routeYour 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.
Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
Missed dose: It is important that you receive all doses at the right times. If you miss a scheduled shot, call your doctor to make another appointment as soon as possible.

What to do if you miss a dose of Engerix-B

Engerix-B contraindications

This vaccine may not be right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to hepatitis B vaccine, or if you are allergic to yeast.

Engerix-B warnings

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a weak immune system (such as from a disease or medicine the suppresses the immune system). Tell your doctor if you are allergic to latex or if you are on dialysis.
This vaccine may not protect you against hepatitis B infection if you are already infected with the virus at the time you receive the shot.
Lightheadedness or fainting

Engerix-B interactions

Some foods and medicines can affect how hepatitis B vaccine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:Cancer medicineCorticosteroid medicine (such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, prednisone)
This vaccine may not protect you against hepatitis B infection if you are already infected with the virus at the time you receive the shot.

Engerix-B side effects

Serious 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
Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash
Lightheadedness or fainting

Less Serious Side Effects

Tiredness
Headache, dizziness
Pain, redness, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the shot is given