Anthrax vaccine adsorbed (Injection)

Introduction:

Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed (AN-thrax vak-SEEN ad-SORBD)

Protects against infections caused by anthrax.

Brand Name(s):

Biothrax

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to anthrax vaccine or if you are pregnant or maybe pregnant.

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.
  • You will receive the first two injections 4 weeks apart. The next three injections are given at 6, 12, and 18 months. You may need a booster every year.

If a dose is missed:

  • Call your doctor or pharmacist 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.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicines that weaken the immune system. This especially includes steroid medicine (such as dexamethasone, prednisolone, prednisone, or Medrol®), radiation, or chemotherapy.
  • Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots or other vaccines while you are receiving this medicine. Vaccines may not work as well, or they could make you ill while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have problems with the immune system, any type of infection, or a history of anthrax infection. Also, tell your doctor if you have problems with blood clotting or if you are using medicines that affect blood clotting.
  • Tell your doctor if you are allergic to rubber. The stopper of the vial contains dry natural rubber latex, which may cause an allergic reaction if you have a latex allergy.
  • This vaccine is usually given only to adults.

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.
  • Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash.
  • Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and body aches.
  • Lumps on your neck, armpits, or groin.
  • Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
  • Swelling or limited movement of the arm where the injection is given.
  • Tremors.

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

  • Back pain.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Headache.
  • Pain during monthly period.
  • Redness, tenderness, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the shot is given.
  • Tiredness.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com