What is Heplisav-B? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Heplisav-B overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Heplisav-B

Generic Names:

  • Heplisav-B

Uses:

  • Prevents hepatitis B infection.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Vaccine

Forms:

  • Injectable

How it’s taken:

  • By injection

What is Heplisav-B used for?

What form(s) does Heplisav-B come in?

  • Injectable

What are common Heplisav-B dosages?

  • Syringe 0.5ML of 20MCG/0.5ML

Heplisav-B images - What does Heplisav-B look like?

  • Heplisav-B
    0.5ml of 20mcg/0.5ml syringe

  • Heplisav-B
    0.5ml of 20mcg/0.5ml vial

How to take Heplisav-B

  • Missed dose: Injection routeCall your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

  • 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. It is usually given in the shoulder area.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

  • Missed dose: Injection routeCall your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

  • 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. It is usually given in the shoulder area.

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

Heplisav-B contraindications - Who shouldn't take Heplisav-B?

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to hepatitis B vaccine or to yeast.

Heplisav-B warnings

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an active infection (including hepatitis B) or a weak immune system.

Heplisav-B interactions & what to avoid when taking Heplisav-B

  • Some medicines may affect how hepatitis B vaccine works. Tell your doctor if you are receiving immune globulin.

Heplisav-B side effects - How does Heplisav-B make you feel?

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

Less Serious Side Effects

  • Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the shot was given