Hepatitis A vaccine
Article Abstract:
A US-approved vaccine to prevent hepatitis A appears to be safe and effective. Hepatitis A is a viral disease that is spread by consuming fecally-contaminated food or water or by direct fecal-oral contact. As people in the US age, they are increasingly likely to acquire hepatitis A infection and to develop immunity. As of mid-1995, a product called Havrix is the only hepatitis A vaccine available in the US. It is administered in .5 milliliter (ml) or 1 ml doses injected on two or three occasions. At least 80% of adults develop a protective immune response within 15 days after the first injection. A clinical study revealed that the vaccine was 90% effective and antibody levels suggest that protection will extend for approximately 10 years. Severe allergic reactions, headache, fever, nausea, and loss of appetite are rare side effects.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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Twinrix: a combination hepatitis A and B vaccine
Article Abstract:
A vaccine called Twinrix is now available in the US for preventing both hepatitis A and hepatitis B. The vaccine contains the same antigens as the hepatitis A vaccine Havrix and the hepatitis B vaccine Engerix-B. Twinrix has not been approved for use in children.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2001
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Argatroban for treatment of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia
Article Abstract:
The anticoagulant drug Argatroban can be used instead of heparin in patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is an adverse effect of heparin, which is also an anticoagulant.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 2001
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