Back in October last year, when I was with Ping, I went to the doctor to get my Hep shots because I was planning a trip to spend time with her during my birthday. (Oct. 28) Well, that fell though because of lack of funds but anyway, I just found one of the information sheets. I'll share what it says with all of you in hopes it answers any questions that could be on your mind.
The drug is called Twinrix and it's a Hep A and B Vaccine. It's applied by injecting three separate needles all one week apart from one another over a three week period.
Common uses
This product is a vaccine that will help you develop an immunity to hepatitis A and hepatitis B. Even though you may not feel its effects, this medication takes effect after a few weeks.
How to use this medication
This medication must be administered by a health professional. Because complete vaccination requires several doses of this product to be given at specific times, it is important to keep your scheduled doctor's appointments.
Keep this product in the refrigerator and do not allow it to freeze. Keep it out of reach of young children.
Possible side effects
In addition to its desired action, this medication may cause some side effects, notably:
- it may cause unusual tiredness;
- it may cause a feeling of discomfort;
- it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting;
- it may cause redness and swelling at the injection site.
Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
General information
It is important to tell your pharmacist:
- If you have a history of any other medical condition, whether you smoke and for women, if you are pregnant or breast feeding;
- if you have allergies to any medications or any other allergies (e.g. to food, latex, etc.);
- all medications you are taking, prescription and non-prescription, including vitamins and natural products and supplements.
