Key facts about Vaqta
What is Vaqta?
Vaqta is the brand name for the inactivated hepatitis A vaccine and is available as an intramuscular injection.
What dosages is Vaqta available in?
Vaqta is available as follows:
- 0.5-mL pediatric dose in single-dose vials and prefilled syringes
- 1-mL adult dose in single-dose vials and prefilled syringes
What is Vaqta used for?
Vaqta is a vaccine used to prevent hepatitis A.
How does Vaqta work?
Vaqta is an inactivated vaccine that protects you from getting infected with the hepatitis A virus. The vaccine helps your body’s immune system make antibodies that will attack the virus if it ever infects you.
How do I take Vaqta?
Vaqta is dosed as follows:
- Children/Adolescents: vaccination consists of a 0.5-mL primary dose administered intramuscularly, and a 0.5-mL booster dose administered intramuscularly 6 to 18 months later
- Adults: vaccination consists of a 1-mL primary dose administered intramuscularly, and a 1-mL booster dose administered intramuscularly 6 to 18 months later
Is it safe for me to take Vaqta?
Vaqta is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. Do not administer Vaqta to individuals with a history of immediate
and/or severe allergic or hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of any hepatitis A vaccine or with an anaphylactic reaction to neomycin.
Vaqta Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Vaqta:
- Soreness at injection site
- Headache
- Irritability
- Pain at injection site
- Redness at injection site
- Sleepiness
- Loss of appetite
Vaqta Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Vaqta. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reactions: difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, hives, rash, chest pain, swelling of the face, shaking, nausea, flushing, dizziness
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Vaqta
The following medications may interact with Vaqta:
- Do not mix Vaqta with any other vaccine in the same syringe or vial
Who makes Vaqta?
Merck & Co., Inc.
Is Vaqta safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Vaqta can harm your unborn baby. Vaqta should only be used during pregnancy if the benefit to you is worth the possible risk to your baby.
