Vaqta 1ml Im Vial (adults19+)
It is used to prevent hepatitis A infection.
Drug Class
Vaccine
Pharmacologic Class
Viral vaccine, Inactivated
Pregnancy Category
Not assigned (inactivated vaccine)
FDA Approved
Feb 1995
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Vaqta is a vaccine that helps protect you from getting Hepatitis A, a serious liver infection caused by a virus. It works by teaching your body's immune system to recognize and fight off the virus, so if you're exposed to it later, your body can protect itself.
How to Use This Medicine
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take this medication exactly as directed, and be sure to follow all instructions carefully. This medication is administered via intramuscular injection.
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on what to do next.
If you need to store this medication at home, consult with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to determine the proper storage procedure.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to receive guidance on what to do next.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Continue practicing good hygiene, especially handwashing, to prevent the spread of infections.
- No specific dietary restrictions or lifestyle changes are required due to the vaccine.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
1 mL administered intramuscularly as a single dose, followed by a 1 mL booster dose 6 to 18 months later.
Dose Range:
1 - 1 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
standard_immunization:
Primary dose followed by a booster dose 6-18 months later for long-term protection.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not indicated for this 1mL formulation.
Infant:
Not indicated for this 1mL formulation.
Child:
Not indicated for this 1mL formulation (0.5mL formulation available for pediatric use).
Adolescent:
Not indicated for this 1mL formulation (0.5mL formulation available for adolescent use up to 18 years).
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed.
Severe:
No adjustment needed.
Dialysis:
No specific considerations; vaccine efficacy may be reduced in immunocompromised patients, including those on dialysis.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed.
Moderate:
No adjustment needed.
Severe:
No adjustment needed.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Vaqta is an inactivated vaccine that induces active immunity against Hepatitis A virus (HAV). It contains purified, inactivated HAV antigen, which, upon administration, stimulates the immune system to produce anti-HAV antibodies. These antibodies provide protection against subsequent HAV infection.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Not applicable (vaccine)
Tmax:
Not applicable (vaccine)
FoodEffect:
Not applicable (vaccine)
Distribution:
Vd:
Not applicable (vaccine)
ProteinBinding:
Not applicable (vaccine)
CnssPenetration:
Not applicable (vaccine)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Not applicable (vaccine)
Clearance:
Not applicable (vaccine)
ExcretionRoute:
Not applicable (vaccine)
Unchanged:
Not applicable (vaccine)
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Seroconversion typically occurs within 2-4 weeks after the primary dose.
PeakEffect:
Peak antibody titers are generally observed 1 month after the primary dose and significantly increase after the booster dose.
DurationOfAction:
Long-term protection, likely lifelong after the booster dose. Studies suggest protection for at least 25 years.
Confidence:
High
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
WHAT ARE SOME SIDE EFFECTS THAT I NEED TO CALL MY DOCTOR ABOUT RIGHT AWAY? WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.A burning, numbness, or tingling feeling that is not normal.Trouble controlling body movements.Change in eyesight.High fever.Severe dizziness or passing out can happen after or sometimes before getting a vaccine. Tell your doctor right away if you feel dizzy. WHAT ARE SOME OTHER SIDE EFFECTS OF THIS DRUG? All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:For all patients taking this drug:Headache.Feeling tired or weak.Upset stomach. Decreased appetite.Mild fever.Diarrhea.Pain, redness, swelling, or warmth where the shot was given.Young children:Feeling fussy.Feeling sleepy. These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.Report side effects to the FDA/CDC Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at https://vaers.hhs.gov/reportevent.html or by calling 1-800-822-7967.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, rapid heartbeat. Seek immediate medical attention.
- High fever (above 102°F or 39°C).
- Severe or persistent pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site that worsens over time.
- Unusual weakness or numbness.
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any health problems you have, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.
To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you have a latex allergy, consult your doctor, as some products may contain latex.
As with all vaccines, this vaccine may not provide complete protection against the disease for every individual who receives it. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. Note that this vaccine will not protect you against other types of hepatitis.
This vaccine contains a non-active virus, which means it cannot cause the disease itself. However, if you have a weakened immune system or are taking medications that suppress the immune system, consult your doctor, as the vaccine may not be as effective.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the vaccine to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
As with all vaccines, this vaccine may not provide complete protection against the disease for every individual who receives it. If you have any questions or concerns, discuss them with your doctor. Note that this vaccine will not protect you against other types of hepatitis.
This vaccine contains a non-active virus, which means it cannot cause the disease itself. However, if you have a weakened immune system or are taking medications that suppress the immune system, consult your doctor, as the vaccine may not be as effective.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. You will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the vaccine to both you and your baby to make an informed decision.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Overdose with vaccines is not typically associated with specific toxic symptoms beyond exaggerated local or systemic reactions. No specific antidote.
What to Do:
In case of suspected overdose, monitor for adverse reactions and provide symptomatic and supportive care. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control) for advice if concerned.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Immunosuppressive therapies (e.g., corticosteroids, chemotherapy, radiation therapy): May reduce the immune response to the vaccine, leading to suboptimal protection.
Moderate Interactions
- Other vaccines: Can generally be co-administered with other inactivated vaccines and most live vaccines at different injection sites. Consult ACIP guidelines for specific co-administration recommendations.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Medical history (allergies, previous vaccine reactions, immunocompromised status)
Rationale: To identify contraindications or precautions and assess risk of adverse reactions or reduced vaccine efficacy.
Timing: Prior to vaccination
Routine Monitoring
Observation for immediate adverse reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis)
Frequency: For at least 15 minutes post-vaccination
Target: Absence of severe allergic reactions
Action Threshold: Any signs of anaphylaxis (e.g., rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, hypotension) require immediate medical intervention.
Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
Frequency: Within 24-48 hours post-vaccination
Target: Mild to moderate, self-limiting
Action Threshold: Severe or persistent reactions, or signs of infection, warrant medical evaluation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Injection site pain, redness, swelling
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Low-grade fever
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Malaise
- Muscle aches
- Rash (rare, but monitor for allergic reactions)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Hepatitis A vaccine is generally considered safe during pregnancy. It is an inactivated vaccine, which typically poses no risk to the fetus. Vaccination is recommended for pregnant women who are at increased risk for HAV infection or severe outcomes from HAV infection (e.g., chronic liver disease, travel to endemic areas).
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
No known increased risk.
Second Trimester:
No known increased risk.
Third Trimester:
No known increased risk.
Lactation
Hepatitis A vaccine is considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and their infants. It is an inactivated vaccine and does not pose a risk to the infant through breast milk.
Infant Risk:
L1 (Safest - no increase in adverse effects in infants)
Pediatric Use
The 1mL formulation of Vaqta is not indicated for pediatric use (individuals under 19 years of age). A 0.5mL formulation is available for pediatric and adolescent populations (12 months through 18 years of age).
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustment is required for geriatric patients. Immune response may be slightly lower in older adults compared to younger adults, but the vaccine is still effective and recommended for at-risk older adults.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Vaqta 1mL vial is specifically for individuals 19 years of age and older. Ensure correct formulation (0.5mL vs 1mL) is used for the appropriate age group.
- Administer intramuscularly, preferably in the deltoid muscle.
- A booster dose 6-18 months after the primary dose is crucial for long-term protection.
- Can be co-administered with most other routine vaccines, but use separate injection sites and syringes.
- Patients with a history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or to a previous dose are contraindicated.
- Immunocompromised individuals may have a diminished immune response to the vaccine; serologic testing post-vaccination may be considered in some cases to confirm adequate antibody response.
Alternative Therapies
- Havrix (Hepatitis A Vaccine, Inactivated)
- Twinrix (Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B Vaccine, Inactivated, combined)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Approximately $100 - $150 per dose per 1mL vial
Insurance Coverage:
Most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B (for at-risk individuals) and Medicaid, typically cover Hepatitis A vaccine as a preventative service. Often covered under Affordable Care Act (ACA) preventative care provisions.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health problems persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others, and do not take medication prescribed for someone else. Store all medications in a secure location, out of reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly; do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. If you are unsure about the proper disposal method, consult your pharmacist, who can also inform you about potential drug take-back programs in your area. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, which your pharmacist can provide. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the medication taken, the amount, and the time of ingestion to ensure prompt and effective treatment.